Abstract: This study was based on a highresolution, threedimensional, physicsbiogeochemistry coupling numerical model that considered multiple dynamics and biochemical factors to simulate the spatial and temporal distribution of the dinoflagellata and diatoms. The results showed that the algae bloomed in late spring, summer and early autumn in this area. The diatoms bloomed twice in spring and summer and dinflagellata bloomed only once in spring. The high phytoplankton mass concentrated around the area of 30 to 50 isobath, which was an frontal area between the high temperature and low turbidity shelf waters and the low temperature and rich nutrient Changjiang diluted water. This area satisfied the physical and biogeochemical requirements for the growth of the phytoplankton. Furthermore, we also analyzed the influences of the physical dynamics such as runoff and shelf circulation on the phytoplankton growth.

Key words: Changjiang estuary and MinZhe coastal waters, phytoplankton, physical processes, numerical simulation