In Situ Time Series Estimation of Downwelling Diffuse Attenuation Coefficient at Southern Bay of Bengal

The present study is aimed to determine the bio-optical characteristics of oceanic waters during South west monsoon in Bay of Bengal using hyperspectral radiometer. The variability of diffuse attenuation coefficient, Kd(λ), with chlorophyll a showed a good relation at shorter wavelengths, indicating the effect of phytoplankton on Kd(λ). The determination coefficient, R2 at 412, 443, 490 and 555 nm were greater than 0.931. A good linear relation between Kd(490) and Kd(λ) was observed at shorter wavelengths. These relationships of Kd(λ) provides a platform to study the underwater light field during Southwest monsoon in Bay of Bengal.