Short-term changes of hydrobiological features in the Gulf of Milazzo (Tyrrhenian Sicily)

In the framework of a wider National research program dealing with costai waters quality (MIUR-ClusterlO-SAM) two seasonal hydrobiological Cluises were carried out in the Gulf of Milazzo to study tbe changes in thermo-haline structures. nutrients concentrations and phytoplankton biomass (expressed as chlorophylla) distribution. 1Wo waLer masse::;: Tynheuiau Surface Water in tlle uppermost 50mthick layer and Levantine Intennediate Water below them are present and flow in the same direction (W-E). ChI-a distribution showed a clear phytopJanktonic accumulation in a frontal zone located between nearshore and offshore waters during both stratification and mixing periods.