Role of phosphatase in mineralisation of organic phosphorus in Porto Novo coastal waters

Significance of organic phosphorus (OP) in the cycling of phosphorus in lakes and in oceans has been recognised but little is known about OP containing compounds and kinetics of their decomposition in natural waters. Bacterial action and autolysis as well as living zooplankton are believed to contribute to degradation of OP. Significance of phosphatase in the degradation of OP has also been reported. Rate of enzymatic release of inorganic phosphate increases with increasing depth and the high rate of decomposition is commensurate with high organic phosphorus concentration. Nearly, 73% of organic phosphorus present in seawater appears to be decomposed enzymatically, about 46% being due to the action of phosphatase.