Anthropogenic Nutrients And Phytoplankton Diversity In Kenya's Coastal Waters: An Ecological Quality Assessment Of Sea Turtle Foraging Sites
Elsevier
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Abstract: This peer-reviewed study assesses the ecological quality status (EQS) of 95 sea turtle foraging sites along Kenya's coastline, integrating physical, chemical, and biological indicators. It investigates the influence of anthropogenic nutrient enrichment?particularly dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), phosphates, and silicates?on phytoplankton diversity and harmful algal blooms (HABs), especially in areas with elevated sea turtle fibropapillomatosis (FP) incidence. Using seasonal surveys, the study identifies widespread phosphate and silicate limitation, ammonium contamination, and an increase in potentially toxic phytoplankton species. Sites adjacent to tidal creeks and estuarine zones showed particularly poor EQS. It links environmental stressors?such as elevated temperature, low oxygen, and nutrient imbalances?to sea turtle health degradation, advocating for integrated environmental monitoring frameworks. The study represents the first application of Water Framework Directive (WFD)-based ecological classification to Kenya's coastal waters.