Student Research Reports
Relationship Between Seawater Quality and Phytoplankton Density Along Mueang Chonburi District’s Coastline
Organization(s):Princess Chulabhorn Science High School Chonburi
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Mr. Waranyu Techapreechawong, Ms. Kharinthip Rattanaroj, Ms. Priyakorn Chittiwong
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Educator(s):Jantarawan jantarakong, Suparat Kromsaeng
Contributors:Asst. Prof. Vichaya Gunbua
Assoc. Prof. Woranop Suparangsi
Asst. Prof. Phakpoom Pharaprasert
Mrs Patcharee Jamsai
Report Type(s):International Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Salinity, Water Temperature, Water Transparency
Presentation Video:
View Video
Presentation Poster:
View Document
Language(s):English, Thai
Date Submitted:03/05/2025
This study examines the relationship between seawater quality and phytoplankton density along the coast of Mueang Chonburi District. Samples were collected from three sites: Chonlamarkwithi Bridge, Ang Sila Fishing Pier, and Wonnapha Fishing Pier in July, August, and November 2024. Results showed that Chonlamarkwithi Bridge had pH and DO levels below seawater quality standards for Type 6 according to the Pollution Control Department (2006). Ang Sila Fishing Pier had pH levels below the Type 5 standard, while Wonnapha Fishing Pier mostly showed pH levels below the Type 4 standard. Ecological assessments indicated that Wonnapha Fishing Pier had a moderate ecological condition, whereas Chonlamarkwithi Bridge and Ang Sila Fishing Pier were highly productive. Phytoplankton densities at Chonlomarkwithi Bridge, Ang Sila Fishing Pier, and Wonnapha Fishing Pier ranged from 2.9×10⁴–1.2×10⁵, 4.5×10⁴–6×10⁴, and 2.3×10⁴–1×10⁵ units/liter, respectively. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation (p<0.05) between water transparency and phytoplankton density. However, comparison of in-situ chlorophyll-a data with satellite observations revealed inconsistencies.
Keywords: seawater quality, phytoplankton, chlorophyll-a, coastal areas, Mueang Chonburi District.