Exploring Algal Diversity in the Mand Stream of Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh, India
Pratibha1 and Nitesh Kumar1*
1,1*Department of Bioscience, Himachal Pradesh University, Summer Hill, Shimla-171005 *Correspondence author: niteshchauhan7@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The current study identified algal flora from collected algal samples from the Mand Stream in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. Samples were gathered over a year (May 2023- January 2024) across different seasons: summer, pre-monsoon, post-monsoon, and winter. Seasonal variations were observed in algal distribution, with Chlorophyceae exhibiting the highest annual abundance (1018 individuals), followed by Bacillariophyceae (679), Cyanophyceae (614), and Euglenophyceae (316). A total of 22 algal species were recorded, with notable seasonal fluctuations across different taxa. These findings highlight the influence of seasonal changes on algal diversity and abundance, contributing to the understanding of aquatic ecosystem dynamics.