Studies of chlorophyll-a distribution in Northern Region Coast of Peninsular Malaysia using satellite remote sensing

Chlorophylls are complex molecules found in all photosynthetic plants, including phytoplankton (microscopic plants dispersed in the waters). Chlorophyll can be detected by using satellite remote sensing technology in the form of ocean colour. Its capability provides synoptic view of the earth environment from global to local scale. Variation of ocean colour reveals difference category of productive areas; where phytoplankton, upwelling activities and other compound of animals-including fish-are traced. In this study, satellite remote sensing imaging (i.e. MODIS - ATBD19 MOD21) is used to study the trace of chlorophyll-a distribution at Northern Region Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The MODIS images in year 2006, 2007 and 2008 of three (3) different monsoon period i.e. north east monsoon period (January), inter-monsoon period (March) and south west monsoon period (June) are used. Maps generated from ATBD19 MOD21 shows the existence of chlorophyll-a concentration variability based on the different monsoon period and the shore area.