SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL VARIATION OF ZOOPLANKTON IN TWO BAYS IN THE SOUTHERN SEA OF MARMARA

This paper describes the composition and abundance of zooplankton in the Bandirma Bay and the Erdek Bay. These bays are located in the southern Sea of Marmara, Turkey. Sampling was carried out during three cruises in summer (July 2006), autumn (October 2006), and spring (March 2007). Zooplankton abundance and biomass seasonally fluctuated and showed differences between the bays. Copepods were the most abundant component, and Penilia avirostris was the most important species during summer in the two bays. The fluctuations in zooplankton abundance, biomass, and community structure were determined by the physical environment.