Evaluation of Water Quality and Identification of Faunal Composition of Nuapokhari an Urban Freshwater System Near Bhubaneswar, Odisha

Author: Srianga Tilak Patnaik and Subhashree Mishra

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Abstract

India holds an eminent position in the realm of inland fishery resources, with its indigenous aquatic biodiversity playing a pivotal role in sustaining both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of rural fishing communities. The economically disadvantaged inland fishers and local populations rely profoundly on these native fish species for their sustenance and economic well-being. Since fishery resources are intrinsically tied to the availability and quality of water, the present study was meticulously undertaken to identify fish species and assess the water quality parameters of the Nuapokhari Pond. This distinguished water body lies in close proximity to Bhubaneswar, geographically positioned at 20°15N latitude and 85°85E longitude, elevated approximately 54 meters above sea level. Encompassing a vast expanse of 46,114.01 m² (496,367.09 ft²), with a perimeter measuring 827.02 m² (2,713.31 ft), the pond serves as a crucial aquatic habitat. During the survey, a total of ten fish species and one crustacean species were documented. Among these, the Cyprinidae family emerged as the most dominant, comprising four species, followed by the Bagridae, Heteropneustidae, Mastacembelidae, and Channidae families, each represented by a single species. To further elucidate the ecological status of Nuapokhari Pond, a comprehensive and systematic study was conducted to evaluate and monitor its chemical and biological parameters. For this purpose, ten sampling sites were strategically selected across the pond. The investigation encompassed an analysis of several physical and chemical parameters—temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), chloride concentration, and alkalinity—over a span of three months (February, March, and April). The pH levels of the water fluctuated between 7.1 and 7.5, while dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations varied from 3.4 mg/L to 5.4 mg/L, indicating a significant degree of organic pollution at Site 8 and minimal pollution at Site 1. The temperature ranged from 24°C to 30.3°C, while alkalinity levels were recorded between 480.1 mg/L and 486.2 mg/L. Additionally, the conductivity of the water was observed within the range of 331 µS to 383 µS, and chloride concentrations fluctuated between 71.3 mg/L and 95.5 mg/L. These findings provide valuable insights into the aquatic ecosystem of Nuapokhari Pond, shedding light on its ecological balance and the implications for sustainable fishery management

Keywords

Nuapokhari Pond, Bagridae, Heteropneustidae, Mastacembelidae, Channidae

Conclusion

The present study underscores the ecological significance of Nuapokhari Pond as a vital aquatic ecosystem supporting diverse fish species and local livelihoods. The identification of ten fish species and one crustacean species, with Cyprinidae as the dominant family, highlights the pond's rich biodiversity. However, the assessment of physico-chemical parameters reveals fluctuations in water quality, with notable variations in pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, alkalinity, conductivity, and chloride concentration across different sampling sites. These findings indicate that while the pond sustains a thriving fish population, organic pollution at certain sites poses a potential threat to aquatic health. The presence of sewage inflows and agricultural runoff underscores the necessity for sustainable water management practices to mitigate pollution and maintain ecological stability. Given the reliance of local fishing communities on these water resources, implementing conservation strategies, periodic water quality assessments, and community-driven initiatives will be essential for safeguarding both biodiversity and the socio-economic well-being of inland fishers. A holistic approach to pond management can ensure the long-term sustainability of Nuapokhari Pond as a productive and resilient fishery resource

References

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How to cite this article

Srianga Tilak Patnaik and Subhashree Mishra (2021). Evaluation of Water Quality and Identification of Faunal Composition of Nuapokhari an Urban Freshwater System Near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(4): 1332-1337