Distribution and species diversity of the floating green macroalgae and micro-propagules in the Subei Shoal, southwestern Yellow Sea

Massive floating green macroalgae have formed harmful green tides in the Yellow Sea since 2007. To study the early development and the associated environmental factors for the green tide, a field survey was carried out in the Subei Shoal, southwestern Yellow Sea. Multiple species were identified in both floating green macroalgae and micro-propagules , while their abundances showed distinct spatial variations. The floating macroalgal biomass was widespread in the northern Subei Shoal and most abundant at 34°N. Ulva prolifera dominated (91.2% in average) the floating macroalgae, and the majority (88.5%) of U. prolifera was the ‘floating type’. In comparison, the micro-propagules were most abundant around the aquaculture rafts, and decreased significantly with the distance to the rafts. The dominant species of micro-propagules was U. linza (48.5%), followed by U. prolifera (35.1%). Their distinct distribution patterns and species diversity suggested little direct contribution of micro-propagules for the floating macroalgae. The spatial variation of the floating macroalgae was probably a combined result from the biomass source and environmental factors, while the abundance of micro-propagules was closely associated with the rafts. A positive correlation between the floating macroalgae and DO was observed and suggested active photosynthesis of the initial biomass in Subei Shoal. This study revealed specific distributional pattern and relationships among the floating macroalgae, micro-propagules and the environmental factors in the source region, which helps understanding the early blooming dynamics of the green tides in Yellow Sea.