Distribution of Chlorophyll a in Lagoon of Butrint waters comparing with environment factors (Albania)

Chlorophyll a concentrations are routinely measured to estimate the standing stock and productivity of phytoplankton in freshwater and marine ecosystems. The aim of this study is to assess distribution of Chlorophyll a in Lagoon of Butrint. The Lagoon of Butrint is located in the southern part of Albania. This is the only lagoon that is connected with Jon Sea. The presence of Chlorophyll a in lagoon waters were discussed in the terms of the variable environmental factors included: depth, temperature, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrites (NO2-), phosphates (PO43-). The geographical coordinates measured in the study station is: latitude 20º 12’ and longitude 39º 47’. The period of sample-taking was October, January, April, June 2010-2011. The Chlorophyll a was studied also to access the level of trophy in Butrint Lagoon. Determination of chlorophyll a is made with fluorometry method. The blooms of phytoplankton are noticed in spring and autumn. The trophic level of lake is oligotrophic. Temperature, pH and nitrite have a significant correlation with Chlorophyll a. Analyzing some hydrochemical indicators of Butrint Lake in 2004 and 2011, especially in the peak months as April, there are noticed some phenomenon that express the tendency to distortion of some environment factors. Bistrica River deviation is not functioning properly and therefore there have been increased temperatures in 2011 compared to 2004. By comparison of the data, we notice a significant increase in chlorophyll a from 2004 to 2011, resulting in the tendency crossing these waters in mesotrophic level.