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Abstract

Gomishan Wetland which is located at the extreme south eastern part of the Caspian Sea has very important characteristics. The zooplanktons of the wetland are determined in 15 groups, belonging to 5 phyla. The density of these microscopic animals is studied within 5 chosen stations and during 12 continued months, via sampling, laboratory and statistical investigations. The seasonal variations were noticeable. The minimum density of the zooplanktons is found in February and then in January. The maximum density for most of the groups was observed from the beginning of the summer until the mid autumn. The annual mean density for any 15-zooplankton groups, as well as, the minimum and maximum density, with %95 confidence limits, are calculated for all of the stations and also the whole wetland. The spatial distribution of the individuals within the population of each of the groups is computed, according to regular, contagious or random distributions. Diversity indices are calculated for the zooplanktons of each station. Comparison of the wetland, with the south eastern Caspian Sea, from the point of view of zooplankton density and diversity is also given in the paper. As a result of the study, the zooplankton density of the wetland is quite higher than the neighboring sea.

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