Showing papers in "Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences in 2015"

Assessment of heavy metals in fourteen marine fish species of four Turkish seas.

Abstract: Heavy metal concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, Ni and Zn in muscles and livers of fourteen fish species from seven stations of four Turkish Seas viz. Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara and Black Sea, were monitored. Metal concentrations in muscles of fish species were found <0.01-0.43 mg kg -1 fo r cadmium, <0.01-0.41 mg kg -1 f or cobalt, 0.032.08 mg kg -1 fo r chromium, 0.16-10.7 mg kg -1 fo r copper, 5.31-115 mg kg -1 for iron, 0.07-3. 62 mg kg -1 f or manganese, 0.013.43 mg kg -1 fo r nickel, 0.15-1.15 mg kg -1 f or lead, 4.17-22.4 mg kg -1 f or zinc, respectively. All metal concentrations in livers were higher than those of in muscles for the same species. Metal concentrations in the edible parts of fish were assessed for human consumption by comparison with Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) and Provisional Tolerable Daily Intake (PTDI) values. The values of all metals in muscles of analyzed fish in the present study stayed below the established limit values. Consequently, it might be concluded that these metals in the edible parts of the examined species should not pose any public health problems.

Adaptive simplified fuzzy logic controller for depth control of underwater remotely operated vehicle

Abstract: A Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) is one class of the unmanned underwater vehicles that is tethered, unoccupied, highly manoeuvrable, and operated by a person on a platform on water surface. For depth control of ROV, an occurrence of overshoot in the system response is highly dangerous. Clearly an overshoot in the ROV vertical trajectory may cause damages to both the ROV and the inspected structure. Maintaining the position of a small scale ROV within its working area is difficult even for experienced ROV pilots, especially in the presence of underwater currents and waves. This project, focuses on controlling the ROV vertical trajectory as the ROV tries to remain stationary on the desired depth and having its overshoot, rise time and settling time minimized. This project begins with a mathematical and empirical modelling to capture the dynamics of a newly fabricated ROV, followed by an intelligent controller design for depth control of ROV based on the Single Input Fuzzy Logic Controller (SIFLC). Factors affecting the SIFLC were investigated including changing the number of rules, using a linear equation instead of a lookup table and adding a reference model. The parameters of the SIFLC were tuned by an improved Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm. A novel adaptive technique called the Adaptive Single Input Fuzzy Logic Controller (ASIFLC) was introduced that has the ability to adapt its parameters depending on the depth set point used. The algorithm was verified in MATLAB® Simulink platform. Then, verified algorithms were tested on an actual prototype ROV in a water tank. Results show it was found that the technique can effectively control the depth of ROV with no overshoot and having its settling time minimized. Since the algorithm can be represented using simple mathematical equations, it can easily be realized using low cost microcontrollers.

Hydrobiology of hypersaline Sambhar salt Lake a Ramsar site, Rajasthan, India

Abstract: Hydrobiology of Sambhar Salt Lake a Ramsar site, Rajasthan was studied with respect to their chemical composition of brine and extremely haloalkaliphililes. Chemical compositions of brine samples were analyzed. Brine had pH value of 11 and a total salt content 30% (w/v). The sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate were principal salts of brine. Metals like Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, As, Cr, Pb, and Cd were detected in significant amount. Total 64 morphologically distinct isolates were recovered from brine samples out of that five were confirmed as red extremely haloalkaliphilic archaeabacteria and identified by using 16S rRNA sequencing method. All five isolates were required high salt (10-30%) and alkaline pH (9-10) for their optimum growth and pigmentation.16S rRNA sequencing revealed that selected isolates were members of Natronococcus geneus.

Dynamic Motion Analysis of a Newly Developed Autonomous Underwater Glider with Rectangular and Tapered Wing

Abstract: An autonomous underwater glider (AUG) is a self-propelled vehicle whose motion is controlled by shifting its centre of buoyancy and gravity with wings to convert vertical motion into horizontal motion. In this paper, the dynamic motion of a newly developed AUG, including a spiral motion, with rectangular and tapered wing is analysed. The dynamics of the glider, including its hydrodynamic derivatives, is modelled based on the Newton-Euler approach. This model is subsequently used, with a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) control technique, to analyse the glider motion along the sagittal plane, its steady state spiral gliding motion in the vertical plane, and its stability. Results show that the glider has a stable dynamic response and a satisfactory glide performance. Specifically, the external control surface i.e. wings, influence the linear velocity and steady turning radius of glider. Furthermore, it was found that the rectangular winged glider has more dynamic stability because of a higher pitch moment. Additionally, a rectangular winged glider has a smaller spiral turning radius i.e. better manoeuvrability.

Assessment of spatio-temporal variations in water quality of Bandon Bay, Thailand.

Abstract: Multivariate statistical techniques were used to analyse a ten-year water quality dataset. Monthly water samples were collected from 15 river mouths during 2002-2011 and analysed for spatio-temporal variation. The results indicated that water quality at Bandon Bay varied spatially and temporally during the past ten years. Four pollution factors were identified: (1) nutrient, (2) organic matter, (3) salinity and buffering and (4) erosion factors. Discriminant analysis on spatial variables identified only four parameters i.e. water depth, alkalinity, salinity, and temperature to discriminate between 15 river mouths. Salinity was the only parameter that discriminated between seasons.

Isolation and identification of pathogenic fungi on Oreochromis aureus (Steindachner, 1864) in the university of Basrah fish ponds.

Abstract: Thirty samples of Oreochromis aureus were collected from University of Basra fish ponds during the period from February until June 2014.Thirteen fish samples showed fungal infection. A sterile swab was taken from outer surface of body (head, skin, gills, abdomen, caudal fin, dorsal fin and pectoral fin). Potato dextrose agar and glucose yeast agar was used for fungal isolation.In this study six genera were identified and the most common were Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., Mucor sp., Penicillium sp., Brachiomyces sp. and Ichthyophonus sp. Gills and abdomen were the most affected parts of fish. Among the generaobservedAspergillus sp. and Mucor sp. were the most prevalent fungi infecting these fishes.

First results of culture of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer, Bloch) in open sea floating net cages in India: effect of stocking density on survival and growth.

Abstract: Present study investigated the effect of stocking density on the survival and growth of Asian seabass cultured in open sea floating cages. Fish were stocked at two densities (14/ m and 35/ m). Analysis revealed that stocking density had significant impact on growth and final mean weight. Survival rate, average daily growth rate and specific growth rate were higher in fish held in low stocking density when compared to high stocking density. Feed conversion ratio was lower in low density group. However, final production in terms of total biomass was higher in high density group.

Ecophysiological studies on Sonneratia L. from the coast of Maharashtra, India

Abstract: In the present report attempt is made to in depth survey of the species Sonneratia L. throughout Maharashtra and its analysis for biochemical, elemental composition, species dynamics and the distribution of the species along the coast. Carbohydrate composition varies from species to species. Protein content is more in all the three species followed by polyphenols. The elemental composition is also varies and is species specific. Chlorides concentration in S. alba is more indicating succulence and sulphate requirement in S. apetala indicates its non succulence. Amino acids content in S. caseolaris is more may used in osmoregulation.

Study on the salinity gradient of Chilika lake before and after opening of new mouth to sea and its impact on seaweed diversity

Abstract: Chilika lake, popularly known as chilka lake showed wide variation in salinity in its 4 sectors varying from almost zero in the Northern sector to 33 ppt in the Outer channel sector during the last decade of the 20 Century. Changes in the salinity gradient of Chilika at its different sectors after opening of a new mouth to Bay of Bengal in 2001 and it influence on seaweed diversity of the lagoon was assessed. Due to influx of seawater from the Bay of Bengal the Outer channel sector, especially after opening of the mouth remained higher throughout the year in all the seasons showing 8 to 15.7 ppt in postmonsoon, 22 to 28.5 ppt in winter and 32 to 35 ppt in summer seasons which was much higher than the salinity level of the lake in 2000. Comparative study of qualitative and quantitative occurrence of seaweeds in different sector in 2011 with the earlier reports up to 2000 showed that Chaetomorpha linum was recorded in all the sectors of the lagoon though earlier it was not recorded in the Northern sector prior to opening of the new mouth. Similarly Enteromorpha compressa recorded in Northern sector and Central sector at low to moderate salinity which was earlier confined to Central sector only. Enteromorpha intestinalis presently occurring all through the lake in abundance was earlier recorded in lower quantity in the Central and Southern sectors at moderate salinity levels. Growth of Gracilaria verrucosa was earlier recorded from Southern and Central sector only, however, it appeared in the Outer channel sector due to increase in salinity all through the lagoon. RAPD analysis showed that the two different of Gracilaria verrucosa occurring in the lagoon are genetically different, hence, could be two different ecophene of the species.

Occurrence and prevalence of Philometra sp. (Nematoda: Philometridae) infection in the ovary of Lutjanus russelli (Bleeker, 1849) in southeast coast of India.

Abstract: Prevalence and intensity of an ovarian nematode parasite, Philometra sp. (Philometridae) and its effect on reproductive potential of marine fish has been investigated. Fish was collected randomly from south east coast of India. Live Philometra sp were represented solely by females and found only in the ovary of mature fish caught in the spawning period of Lutjanus russelli. Fishes were measured length and weight. The normal and infected ovaries were carefully removed from dissected fishes and examined the prevalence of nematode infection for each fish. Than the nematode were carefully removed and washed in a 0.6% saline solution and fixed in 70% ethanol. Representative nematodes were clean with glycerin and fixed in a solution of 95% glacial acid and 5% formalin for identification for light microscopy (LM) examination. Since the ovary were maligned during that period, particularly ovaries would provide an abundant food source in the form of blood. Maximum prevalence in Kalpakkam and Poompuhar, the prevalence was 78.1 % and 87.8 % in summer and post monsoon season respectively. Minimum was reached in Point Calimere coast in post monsoon, summer, pre monsoon and monsoon season is 16.3 %, 25.9%, 29.4 % and 38.6 % respectively. The overall prevalence was 69.5±26.872 % in post monsoon, 53.4±19.254 % in summer, 55.6±22.273 % in pre monsoon and 73.3±18.140 in monsoon seasons.

Effect of monoalgal diet on the growth, survival and egg production in Nannocalanus minor (Copepoda: Calanoida).

Abstract: The effect of monoalgal diet on the growth, survival, egg production and egg hatching succession in calanoid copepod Nannocalanus minor was studied under laboratory condition. There are seven different microalgae such as Chlorella marina, Dunaliella salina, Isochrysis galbana, Nannochloropsis sp., Coscinodiscus centralis, Chaetoceros affinis and Skeletonema costatum were tested for their efficacy on survival of N. minor at two different algal cell concentrations viz. 10,000 and 20,000 cells/ml. Among the six diets tested, Chlorella marina shows the extensive survival in both lowest and highest algal concentrations where the 100% survival extends for 7 and 9 days of experiment while the least survival was obtained in diatom Skeletonema costatum. Likewise, copepod N. minor grew faster at C. marina than other algal feed tested presently. The egg production (321.52 eggs/female/day) and hatching succession (93.75%) both are proportionally increased with increasing algal concentration (20,000 cells/ml) while at low algal concentration (1000 cells/ml) it was recorded as 31 eggs/female/day and 44.33% respectively. The study provides a realistic basis for formulating suitable algal food and algal concentration required for copepod N. minor to achieve utmost growth, survival and fecundity in captive condition. This information can help in developing the culture technology on copepod Nannocalanus minor for it use in larval fish culture.

Antifouling potentials of mangrove Rhizophora apiculata against Vibrio alginolyticus strain VBM-01.

Abstract: Present study consist the antifouling properties from Rhizophora apiculata was tested against pioneering marine biofouling bacteria Vibrio alginolyticus. The Vibrio alginolyticus was found to dominant group with high population density of 160±2.0×10 5 colony forming unit which has been isolated from Mandapam coast of South India. Agar well diffusion method was used to find out the inhibition of biofilm forming bacteria through zone of inhibition. Followed by the time kill assay and anti-adhesion assay was performed by exploiting the potentials of antibiofilm activity. Preliminary phyto-chemical screening shows the alkaloids and saponins were exist in the chloroform extract of Rhizophora apiculata. Further, HPLC chromatogram shows two significant major peaks with 27.943 and 98.670 retention time. HPTLC profile was recorded with Rf value concluded the broad antifouling properties of the chloroform extracts of Rhizophora apiculata inhibit the growth of pioneering marine biofouling bacteria. [

Determination of nickel and chromium content in serum, emulsion, skin and viscera of Iranian tuna fish.

Abstract: Contamination of heavy metals, namely, nickel and chromium was evaluated in serum, emulsion and tissues of Euthynnus affinis and Thunnus tonggol collected from Persian Gulf. The concentration of metals was determined by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). Tissues analysis revealed that viscera in Euthynnus affinis accumulated the highest levels of Ni and Cr. Nickel concentration in the non-edible parts of the examined fish (viscera in both fish species and skin in Thunnus tonggol) were higher than the established values by World Health Organization (WHO), whilst concentration of chromium for all samples were higher than maximum permissible limits determined by the WHO, except for serum of Thunnus tonggol.

Pea crab Arcotheres alcocki (Rathbun, 1909) as endoparasite of the backwater clam Meretrix casta (Chemnitz, 1782)

Abstract: Occurrence of Arcotheres alcocki (Rathbun, 1909) (synonymous with Pinnotheres alcocki) in the mantle cavity of the backwater clam Meretrix casta (Chemnitz, 1782) of Bahuda and Rushikulya estuaries (Odisha), east coast of India is reported in this paper. It is the first record of A. alcocki occurring as parasite in M. casta from Indian coasts and also the first report on the occurrence of pea crab from Odisha coast. Visible damage to the body tissue of the infested clams was noticed which suggests that the clam fishery of this region is susceptible for parasitic attack by A. alcocki.

Shallow landslides around Port Blair, Andaman, India using multi - variant geospatial analysis techniques

Abstract: Risk intensity for eight geo-environmental parameters viz., Drainage density, Slope, Lithology, Geomorphology, Lineament, Soil texture, Soil depth, landuse land cover were used for demarcating the landslide Hazard Zone (LHZ) using geospatial techniques. The results reveal that humans have settled around moderate (18.69%) and high (11.95%) landslide hazard prone area. Majority of the study area 69.35% falls in low hazard category and is covered by forest. Low hazard zone is highly suitable for future expansion of built up area.

Effect of soil formations to ground failure during earthquake in Adapazarı City, Northern Turkey.

Abstract: In terms of the formation of the ground in each country, especially in earthquakes, structure damages are much observed in cities due to soil problems. In Turkey, Adapazari soils show the rare feature in terms of formation in the word. 17 August 1999 Kocaeli earthquake is remembered significant number of casualties, damage and the soil problems. Adapazari Plain is the largest alluvial plain of the Marmara region. Adapazari was shaped by both the tectonic events and contribution of sediments carried by the rivers. The largest share belongs to the Sakarya River in the filling of the plain, Mudurnu water takes the second place. The geotechnical properties of this alluvial area are highly variable. Because of geology and local soil conditions soils of Adapazari has shown potential in terms of soil problems during earthquake. In this study a description of the damage suffered throughout history in Adapazari will be given.

Impact of Thane cyclone on the heavy metal distribution in water, sediment, plankton and fish (Mugil cephalus) in selected areas along the Tamil Nadu, Southeast coast of India.

Abstract: Investigations on distribution of heavy metals in water, sediment, plankton and fish (Mugil cephalus) was studied in Thane cyclone affected areas (Pondicherry, Cuddalore, Nagappattinam) and un­affected area (Mimisal). Accumulation rate of heavy metals was noticed in the order of Sediment > Water > Plankton > Fish. In water, the metal distribution order was found to be high in the order of Nagapattinam > Mimisal > Cuddalore > Pondicherry. Iron as dominant metal (28.91μg/l) at Mimisal and cadmium as least recorded metal (0.75μg/l). In sediments, the order was Cuddalore > Pondicherry > Nagappattinam > Mimisal. The zinc noticed as a dominant metal with 10.79μg/g at Cuddalore and cadmium minimum (0.59μg/g) found in Pondicherry. The area wise metal distribution in plankton were Pondicherry > Nagappattinam > Cuddalore > Mimisal with cadmium minimum (0.79μg/g) recorded at Pondicherry and zinc maximum (58.54μg/g) at Cuddalore. While for fish the order of metal accumulation was Mimisal > Pondicherry > Nagappattinam > Cuddalore with a maximum accumulation (23.02μg/g) of zinc at Mimisal and minimum (0.70μg/g) of cadmium at Cuddalore.

Biodegradation and Detoxification of a Textile Azo Dye Reactive Blue 171 by Marinobacter sp. NB-8

Abstract: The degradation and detoxification of an azo dye Reactive Blue 171 was carried out by the acclimatized Marinobacter sp. NB-8 (Accession No. HF541878) isolated from marine environment and identified by 16s rRNA sequence analysis. Decolorization of the dye was determined by spectroscopic technique. Isolated Marinobacter sp.NB-8 could decolorize the 1500μg/ml dye up to 92.00% in the nutrient medium within 24 hours. Slight decrease in decolorization was observed when half strength nutrient medium was used. Decolorization of the dye was studied in presence of different co-substrates Viz. 1% glucose, 1% yeast extract and 1% starch and found that percent decolorization was up to 92.22%, 94.00% and 92.88% respectively. Percent decolorization by cell free extract was also studied. Isolate could reduce the COD of the dye Reactive Blue 171 up to 80.78% after 24 hours. Degradation of the dye was confirmed by GC-MS analysis.

Biofouling by Saccostrea cucullata - a major threat to mangroves of Vasishthi Estuary, Maharashtra.

Abstract: Present work reports heavy biofouling by Saccostrea cucullata on mangroves of the Vasishthi Estuary. High heavy metal concentrations in the estuary could be the cause of proliferation of these oyster species. Field observations suggest physiological impairment of mangroves due to oyster biofouling, damaging their capacity to accrue sediments. Thus, biofouling by S. cucullata is not only a major threat to the mangrove forests in the Vasishthi Estuary, but also to the tidal flats which are a haven for diverse benthic community, organic carbon sinks and natural adsorbents of pollutants.

A study on seasonal variations of Po-210 levels in a coal burning power station area of Malaysia

Abstract: Lubna Alam, Che Abd. Rahim Mohamed, Nik Azlin Nik Arifin & Mazlin Bin Mokhtar Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Bangi, 43600, Selangor DE, Malaysia School of Environment and Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 shah alam, Selangor, Malaysia [E-mail: lubna_762120@yahoo.com]