Biomass distribution of heterotrophic and autotrophic microorganisms of the photic layer in Cuban southern oceanic waters

Abstract

We measured the vertical and seasonal distribution of picoplankton (0.2-2 μm) and nanoplankton (2-20 μm) in the photic layer of Cuban southern oceanic and coastal waters. The concentration of the different fractions was estimated by epifluorescence microscopy. Heterotrophic components from the different fractions showed higher vertical stratification in the oceanic station in comparison to the coastal one. The autotrophic components showed an irregular vertical distribution pattern, both in coastal and oceanic stations. In all the analyzed stations, the heterotrophic bacteria showed an inverse correlation with the autotrophic (r= -0.98), and the heterotrophic nanoplankton (r= -0.96). Auto and heterotrophic nanoplankton probably regulate bacteria abundance by predation, although autotrophic nanoplankton may represent a source of organic matter for microorganisms.