Assessing Zooplankton Communities as Bioindicators in an Urban Freshwater System Near Bhubaneswar Odisha

Author: Srianga Tilak Patnaik and Krushna Kumar Arya

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Abstract

Urban pond ecosystems are critical ecological assets that provide essential services such as groundwater recharge, flood mitigation, microclimate regulation, and biodiversity support. Plankton communities—particularly zooplankton—are integral to the ecological functioning of these freshwater systems, serving both as bioindicators of water quality and as key players in nutrient cycling and energy transfer. This study focuses on Nuapokhari, an artificial pond located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and aims to assess the diversity, abundance, and ecological role of zooplankton within this urban aquatic environment. The pond, situated in Matiapara village, expands seasonally during heavy rainfall, exhibiting dynamic hydrological characteristics that influence its biotic communities. Zooplankton taxa such as Rotifera, and Copepoda were examined due to their sensitivity to environmental changes and their functional significance in aquatic food webs. Findings from this study contribute to understanding how urbanization impacts freshwater biodiversity and highlight the importance of zooplankton monitoring in ecological assessment and sustainable water management practices

Keywords

Nuapokhari, Urban pond, Rotifera, and Copepoda

Conclusion

The current investigation revealed that the water quality exhibited only minimal variations across the different sampling points—a uniformity likely stemming from the pervasive presence of both organic and inorganic pollutants throughout the pond. This subtle homogeneity in water chemistry suggests that these contaminants are well-dispersed, exerting a consistent influence on the aquatic environment. Within this ecological framework, the zooplankton community was represented by an equal distribution of diversity, comprising four species of Rotifers and four species of Copepods. This balanced assemblage not only reflects the prevailing environmental conditions but also underscores the resilience and adaptability of these microscopic organisms in the face of continuous pollutant inputs

References

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How to cite this article

Srianga Tilak Patnaik and Krushna Kumar Arya (2021). Srianga Tilak Patnaik and Krushna Kumar Arya. Assessing Zooplankton Communities as Bioindicators in an Urban Freshwater System Near Bhubaneswar Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(1): 806-811