Seasonal Diversity of Zooplankton with Special Reference to Cladocera Diversity in Rajsamand Lake, Rajasthan
Prem Singh*
Department of Zoology *SPC Govt. College, Bhim - 305921 (India)
ABSTRACT
The present investigation was carried out to study the seasonal diversity of zooplankton with special reference to Cladocera in Rajsamand Lake, Rajasthan. The study was conducted from October 2019 to May 2021 at selected sampling sites of the lake. Cladocera formed an important component of the zooplankton community and showed marked seasonal fluctuations. Maximum diversity and density of Cladocera were observed during winter season while minimum population was recorded during monsoon season. Species such as Daphnia, Moina, Ceriodaphnia, Bosmina and Diaphanosoma were commonly observed. The abundance of cladocerans indicated mesotrophic to eutrophic condition of the lake. The present study highlights the ecological importance of zooplankton as biological indicators of freshwater ecosystems and provides baseline information for conservation and management of Rajsamand Lake.