Factors influencing spatial patterns in primary productivity in Kenyan territorial waters

This study was formulated to investigate productivity systems within Kenyan territorial waters. The interaction of processes on the margins marine waters, particularly influx fresh water loaded with sediments and nutrients, influences coastal These deposited sediments, rich in create a topographic barrier northerly flowing East African Coastal Current (EACC). Phosphate nitrate peaks observed around North Kenya Bank area provide evidence an upwelling event. contribution from Lamu archipelago mangrove system is evident high particulate organic carbon (POC) input area. did not however show chlorophyll-a levels despite POC influx. may be due low limiting phosphate surrounding contrary observation further north region where corresponding higher were apparent. Productivity largely supported by matter mineralization. High chlorophyll corresponded pelagic fish densities south (around 4.5°S) 2.5°S).