Research Article: Seasonal Phytoplankton Dynamics Through Morpho-Functional Classification: A Multi-Framework Validation in a Tropical Wetland

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21276/pt.2026.v3.i1.2

Keywords:

Phytoplankton, Traits, Functional classification, Multivariate analysis, Freshwater ecosystem.

Abstract

Taxonomic classifications often mask ecological convergence among phylogenetically distinct species sharing similar functional roles and adaptations. This study aims to demonstrate that trait-based morpho-functional group (MFG) classification enhances our understanding of phytoplankton dynamics in a tropical wetland. Seventeen functional groups of phytoplankton were identified in the study area. The ecosystem exhibits significant seasonal shifts, from a chlorophyte- and diatom-dominated pre-monsoon to a reduced phytoplankton diversity in the monsoon season and a nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria-dominated post-monsoon season. These seasonal shifts of the MFGs showed correlation with established functional frameworks and also strongly correlated with variations in key physico-chemical parameters. This was confirmed by Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). The present approach of MFG of the algal communities effectively captures ecological strategies and improves the prediction of community responses in tropical wetlands.

Author Biographies

  • Princy Bose, St. Thomas College, Kozhencherry, Pathanamthitta Dist., Kerala (India)

    Research Scholar, PG and Research Department of Botany,

    St Thomas College, Kozhencherry

  • Leena Abraham, St. Thomas College, Kozhencherry, Pathanamthitta Dist., Kerala (India)

    Assistant Professor, Postgraduate and Research Department of Botany

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Published

2026-03-17

Data Availability Statement

The datasets generated during and analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): Current Issue

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Princy Bose, Leena Abraham (Author)

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How to Cite

1.
Bose P, Abraham L. Research Article: Seasonal Phytoplankton Dynamics Through Morpho-Functional Classification: A Multi-Framework Validation in a Tropical Wetland. phytoTalks. 2026;3(1):684-695. doi:10.21276/pt.2026.v3.i1.2

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