Background/Objectives: Tropical coastal areas are characterized by dynamic seascapes which encompass interconnected ecosystems such as wet land, mangroves, sea grass beds and corals. These ecosystems provides are highly productive, aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity as well as for the functioning of economic sectors such as tourism and fisheries. The near shore waters are exhibiting the seasonal variations. Fresh water inflow is influence the nutrient cycle in environments.
Methods/Statistical analysis: The sediment samples was collected in Nagapattinam coastal waters from July’ 2016 – June 2017 to collect the polychaete and analyze the species distribution.
Findings: The total numbers (nos) of 80123 nos/ m² were distributed in this station. The total numbers of 42 polychaete species were recorded during the study period. All the 42 species were recorded in summer and minimum of 21 species were recorded at monsoon. Among them 9 species of polychaetes (Capitella capitata, Nereis virens, Polydora ciliata, Perinereis cultrifera, Eunice tentaculata, Terebellides stroemi, Amphinome rostrata, Syllis gracilis and Glycera alba) were dominated in all seasons.
Application/Improvements: Benthic macrofauna play an important role in the coastal ecosystems such as scavenging, biological indicator, nourishment and nutraceutical values for fin and shell fishes. Among this, the Polychaetes are predominant group among the macro-benthic forms. They are also often used as live feed for aquaculture industry and also bio-prospecting.
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