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In this paper we present microplankton distribution patterns in the Strait of Gibraltar obtained during a cruise carried out in September 1997. Chlorophyll, microplankton abundance and biovolume increase from southwest to northeast, a tendency that coincides with a gradual elevation of the interface depth in the same direction. The vertical distribution of biomass at the different stations shows deep maxima associated with the pycnoclines. The generation of internal waves and eventual intrusion of deep water on the sill can be decisive in the enrichment of surface water and plankton dynamics. The taxonomic structure agrees with the expected pattern, with a predominance of diatoms in the richer Mediterranean stations (especially in the north) and a predominance of dinoflagellates and microzooplankton at the Atlantic side. Phytoplankton distribution and salinity values found in the Strait of Gibraltar can be …