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International Journal Of Forest, Animal And Fisheries Research(IJFAF)

Application of Pearson Correlation Analysis in Assessing Nutrient-Phytoplankton Dynamics: A Methodological Overview for Aquatic Managers

Ilakkiya S , Surulivel L , Dona Merli A R

Article Info: Received: 03 Jan 2026; Received in revised form: 03 Feb 2026; Accepted: 08 Feb 2026; Available online: 15 Feb 2026

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DOI: 10.22161/ijfaf.10.1.2

Journal : International Journal Of Forest, Animal And Fisheries Research(IJFAF)

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Nutrient enrichment is a primary driver of phytoplankton production and community shifts in aquatic ecosystems. Quantitative evaluation of nutrient-phytoplankton relationships is fundamental for diagnosing eutrophication, predicting harmful algal blooms, and designing nutrient management strategies. Pearson correlation analysis is widely used as an initial statistical approach to examine linear associations between nutrient concentrations and phytoplankton metrics such as chlorophyll-a, cell density, and biovolume. This article provides a comprehensive methodological overview of Pearson correlation analysis in aquatic ecosystem assessment. It discusses theoretical foundations, assumptions, statistical workflow, interpretation strategies, ecological considerations, and limitations. The paper also outlines how aquatic managers can integrate correlation analysis into broader monitoring and decision-making frameworks.

Pearson correlation analysis, Nutrient limitation, Phytoplankton biomass, Eutrophication assessment, Aquatic ecosystem management

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