Seasonal Distribution, Diversity, and Pollution Indicators of Zooplankton in Surface Water Bodies of Mahendergarh District

Abstract

Water quality is crucial for sustaining both human life and the environment, particularly in freshwater bodies that support biodiversity and provide essential resources for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. In Mahendergarh district, Haryana, India, the degradation of surface water quality, primarily due to anthropogenic activities such as agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and urban sewage, has led to the eutrophication of water bodies like the JLN Canal, Chalak Nala, and Khatoti Khurd Pond. This study focuses on the seasonal distribution, diversity, and pollution indicators of zooplankton in these water bodies, utilizing them as bioindicators to assess water quality. The study identified 27 genera of zooplankton, categorized into four major groups: Rotifera, Copepoda, Cladocera, and Protozoa. Seasonal variations in zooplankton abundance and diversity were observed, with the highest populations recorded during the pre-monsoon season, which coincided with increased phytoplankton growth due to nutrient enrichment. The monsoon season brought a decline in zooplankton abundance due to dilution and turbidity, while post-monsoon showed slight recovery. Key species such as Thermocyclops hyalinus and Brachionus angularis were found to be reliable bioindicators of eutrophication and organic pollution, particularly at Chalak Nala (Site 2), where pollution levels were highest. These findings underscore the potential of zooplankton monitoring for managing water quality in Mahendergarh's surface water bodies. By tracking changes in zooplankton populations and correlating them with environmental factors, this research offers valuable insights for sustainable water management in the region.