Vol. 12(1), 2016 ISSN: 0972-3153 - saconenvis.nic.in1).pdf · Vol. 12(1), 2016 ISSN: 0972-3153 Contents 1. 2. 4-5 3. Seasonal variation in heterotrophic bacterial density from the

Vol. 12(1), 2016 ISSN: 0972-3153

Contents

1.

2.

4-5

3. Seasonal variation in heterotrophic bacterial density from the mudflats of Salav coast, District Raigad, Maharashtra, India 5-8

4. Abstracts from Published Literature 9

5. Newspaper Article 10

Views expressed in the articles of this newsletter are of the authors only.

Phytoplankton diversity of Karave Pond, Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra), India page 1-3

Safety in Numbers: Observations on Communal Ovipositing among Rhinocypha bisignata and

Copera vittata page

page

page

page

128

From the editors' desk

Sustainability is the widely used word in the conservation sector for the last several decades. When we speak about wetlands, sustaining its resources becomes vital in terms of protecting whatever is remaining, after the ongoing pressures from various corners, for the future generations. At a time when there is a global concern regarding water availability to human needs, the requirements for wild species and ecosystem services at times is sidelined. The oft-said harmonious living and development has to be taken now in right earnest than ever before to lead to sustainability.

In this issue of the newsletter we bring to you articles on the lesser-known organisms from the wetlands that are important in defining the ecological character and functions of the wetlands. The microbes or planktons are crucial to almost all major food chains, including the detrital chain, and any changes in microbial / planktons are harbinger to the requirements for remedial measures.

This year we have had some excellent contributions to our newsletters covering an array of issues relating to the wetlands and we greatly appreciate the efforts of our contributors and readers in promoting the cause of wetlands.

We further request you to kindly visit our website and give us your suggestions for improvement. Requesting again everyone to be a part of this movement, we earnestly look forward to your continued association. Please keep us updated with your concerns on the wetlands.

P A Azeez

SACON ENVIS Newsletter - Sarovar Saurabh Vol.12(1), 2016. ISSN: 0972-3153 1

ABSTRACT

The monthly variation of phytoplankton population in urban freshwater pond, Karave, located at Navi Mumbai was

studied for one year duration i.e. February 2013 to January 2014. Twenty eight species of phytoplankton with

dominance of diatoms is observed in the pond. Nitzschia sp. was dominant in terms of density showing high abundance

in month of June. Monoraphidium sp., Peridinium sp. and Oscillatoria sp. are some of the prominent representatives from

other algal groups.

Key words: Phytoplankton, Navi Mumbai, Diatoms

INTRODUCTION

Fresh water ponds in urban areas are suitable habitats for growth of aquatic flora and fauna. In these habitats,

phytoplankton forms the basis of the food chains. However, the phytoplankton community is influenced by

anthropogenic factors, resulting in dominance of few tolerant species. The observations on seasonal variation and

diversity of phytoplankton can help understand the ecological status of such ecosystems.

STUDY AREA

Navi Mumbai city in Maharashtra, India is located at 19°01' N73°01' E geo-coordinates. The average annual

temperature varies from 22°C to 36°C, and average annual rainfall is 2000-2500 mm.

The phytoplankton study from the perennial pond also known as Ganesh talav covering an area of

19300 sq m situated in the Karave village (19°01' 14.130"N 073°00' 41.336"E), Navi Mumbai was

undertaken. The water body is dominated by thick growth of Eichhornia crassipes over the entire

year covering about 60% of the surface area. Growth of Lemna sp. is seen in some pockets of the

pond. The open area which gives access to anthropogenic activities shows heavy growth of

submerged macrophyte, Ceratophyllum demersum. Other macrophytes include Nymphea sp., Ipomoea sp.

and some emergent grasses. The pond shows presence of a large number of birds including

Cormorants, Common Moorhen, Purple Moorhen, Pond Heron, Egret, Small Blue Kingfisher,

White Breasted Kingfisher, Spot Billed Duck, etc. Checkered keelback and other snakes are seen

commonly. The pond is surrounded by a concrete wall for protection, a semicircular wall is

constructed within the pond and a small garden is created in the adjoining area as part of the

beautification program. The anthropogenic activities at the pond include washing, bathing and idol

immersion.

Phytoplankton diversity of Karave Pond, Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra), IndiaMonica Vidhate and Vaishali Somani*

Zoology Department, Maharshi Dayanand College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Parel,

Mumbai-400012.(Affiliated to Mumbai University)

*[email protected]

Purple Moorhen

Egret

White Breasted Kingfisher

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S. No Bird Name Scientific Name Feeding Guild

IUCN status Mean±SE

Migrant Status

1 ANSERIFORMS Podicipetidae Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis P LC 228.75±102.58 R

2 Anatidae Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha P LC 1740.25±712.02 RM

3 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata P LC 162.666±92.85 WM

4 Garganey Anas querquedula P LC 94±61 WM

5 PELECANIFORMES Pelecanidae Spot-billed Pelican

Pelecanus philippensis P NT 654.5±316.13 WM

6 SULIFORMES Phalacrocoracidae Little Cormorant

Phalacrocorax niger P LC 1665.75±907.62 R

7 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo P LC 447.25±291.8 R

8 Indian Shag Phalacrocorax fuscicollis P LC 272±131 WM

9 CICONIIFORMS Anhingidae Oriental Darter

Anhinga melanogaster P NT 84.75±48.11 R

10 Ardeidae Little Egret Egretta garzetta P LC 550.25±258.39 R

11 Large Egret Casmerodius albus P LC 181±21.54 R

12 Median Egret Mesophoyx intermedia P LC 305±104.28 R

13 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis P LC 1885.25±1067.59 R

14 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea P LC 428.25±167.3 R

15 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea P LC 39.75±11.67 R

16 Indian Pond-Heron Ardeola grayii P LC 271.75±190.5 R

17 Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax P LC

574±194.87 R

18 Ciconiidae Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala P NT 135±77.686 WM

19 Asian Openbill-Stork Anastomus oscitans P LC 24.5±20.5 WM

20 Wooly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus P V 6.5±0.5 WM

21 Threskiornithidae Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus P LC 18.5±3.5 R

22 Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus P NT 157±85.64 R

23 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia P LC 107.66±83.23 R

24 FALCONIFORMES Accipitridae Oriental Honey-buzzard

Pernis ptilorhyncus C LC 7±2.88 R

25 Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus C LC 15±9 R

26 Black Kite Milvus migrans C LC 26.5±12.28 R

27 Brahminy Kite Haliastur indus C LC 22.25±8.87 R

28 Shikra Accipiter badius C LC 9±3.21 R

29 GALLIFORMES Phasianidae Grey Francolin

Francolinus pondicerianus O LC 95±84.49 R

30 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus O LC 160±55.75 R

31 GRUCIFORMES Rallidae White-breasted Waterhen

Amaurornis phoenicurus O LC 47.25±19 R

32 Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio O LC 455.5±187.23 R

33 Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus O LC 263.25±143.4 R

34 Common Coot Fulica atra O LC 1263.5±588.8 R

35 CHARADRIIFORMES Jacanidae Pheasant-tailed Jacana

Hydrophasianus chirurgus I LC 9±1 RM

36 Charadriidae Red-wattled Lapwing

Vanellus indicus I LC 78.5±25.79 R

S. No Bird Name Scientific Name Feeding Guild IUCN status Mean±SE Migrant Status

ANSERIFORMS

Podicipetidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis P LC 228.75±102.58 R

Anatidae

Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha P LC 1740.25±712.02 RM

Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata P LC 162.666±92.85 WM

Garganey Anas querquedula P LC 94±61 WM

PELECANIFORMES

Pelecanidae Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis P NT 654.5±316.13 WM

SULIFORMES

Phalacrocoracidae

Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger P LC 1665.75±907.62 R

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo P LC 447.25±291.8 R

Indian Shag Phalacrocorax fuscicollis P LC 272±131 WM

CICONIIFORMS

Anhingidae Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster P NT 84.75±48.11 R

Ardeidae

Little Egret Egretta garzetta P LC 550.25±258.39 R

Large Egret Casmerodius albus P LC 181±21.54 R

Median Egret Mesophoyx intermedia P LC 305±104.28 R

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis P LC 1885.25±1067.59 R

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea P LC 428.25±167.3 R

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea P LC 39.75±11.67 R

Indian Pond-Heron Ardeola grayii P LC 271.75±190.5 R

Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax P LC 574±194.87 R

Ciconiidae

Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala P NT 135±77.686 WM

Asian Openbill-Stork Anastomus oscitans P LC 24.5±20.5 WM

Wooly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus P V 6.5±0.5 WM

Threskiornithidae

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus P LC 18.5±3.5 R

Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus P NT 157±85.64 R

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia P LC 107.66±83.23 R

FALCONIFORMES

Accipitridae

Oriental Honey-buzzard Pernis ptilorhyncus C LC 7±2.88 R

Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus C LC 15±9 R

Black Kite Milvus migrans C LC 26.5±12.28 R

Brahminy Kite Haliastur indus C LC 22.25±8.87 R

Shikra Accipiter badius C LC 9±3.21 R

GALLIFORMES

Phasianidae Grey Francolin Francolinus pondicerianus O LC 95±84.49 R

Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus O LC 160±55.75 R

2 SACON ENVIS Newsletter - Sarovar Saurabh Vol.12(1), 2016. ISSN: 0972-3153

The study conducted from February 2013 to January 2014 was done on a monthly basis. Surface water samples were

collected during early morning hours in clean plastic carboys for analysis of physic-chemical parameters. Standard

Methods (APHA, 1980; Trivedy and Goel, 1984) were followed for the water analysis in the laboratory. For

phytoplankton, 500 ml water sample was collected in a separate container and fixed with Lugol's iodine solution on the

field and later 4% formalin was used for long term preservation. The phytoplankton was concentrated and identified up

to genera level using standard keys by Fritsch (1979), Sarode and Kamat (1984) and Bellinger (1992). The quantitative

estimation done by counting the cells in a Haemocytometer as described by Trivedy and Goel (1984).

OBSERVATIONS

The phytoplankton community of the pond is represented by 28 species

belonging to five groups namely Bacillariophyta, Dinophyta,

Cyanophyta, Chlorophyta and Euglenophyta, in order of their

contribution (Fig. 1). Total phytoplankton peak was recorded during the

month of June and March (Table 1). The maximum abundance was

recorded due to the contributions of high densities of different algal

groups. The peak observed in June was due to high growth of

Peridinium sp. and Nitzschia sp. High abundance of Oscillatoria sp. and

Surirella sp. resulted in other peak during March.

Dominance of Bacillariophyta as observed during our study has been recorded by several researchers for fresh water

ponds in India (Bhoyar and Tamloorkar, 2012; Karthi et al., 2013; Sakhare and Kamble, 2014; Priya Gopinath and Ajit

Kumar, 2015). Diatoms being the most dominant quantitative component of phytoplankton community of this pond,

the peak were noticeable in month of June. Total nine genera of Bacillariophyta were recorded during present study.

Phytoplankton

Chlorophyta (Green) Feb-13 Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan-14

Actinastrum sp. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0

Chlorella sp. 0 0 0 330 0 25 0 0 0 0 25 5

Crucigenia sp. 0 0 30 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0

Dictyosphaerium sp. 0 20 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0

Golenkinia sp. 0 0 0 0 100 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Monoraphidium sp. 73 140 30 80 50 15 0 20 0 10 25 5

Nannochloris sp. 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Scenedesmus sp. 27 60 15 0 150 0 0 15 0 0 35 5

Coelastrum sp. 7 0 0 0 50 0 10 5 0 0 0 0

Chroococcus sp. 0 0 0 30 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Merismopedia sp. 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5

Synechocystis sp. 0 0 23 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Anabaena sp. 193 0 0 0 0 10 0 5 0 0 0 0

Lyngbya sp. 0 0 0 0 100 0 0 0 0 5 0 0

Oscillatoria sp. 13 2000 68 0 450 0 0 5 0 0 10 5

Spirulina sp. 0 0 0 20 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0

Cyclotella sp. 0 60 0 0 100 5 0 0 0 0 0 0

Thalassiosira sp. 0 0 0 0 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 5

Diatoma sp. 20 0 0 0 350 50 20 10 60 0 0 0

Fragilaria sp. 20 0 0 0 0 0 40 0 0 0 5 0

Synedra sp. 13 0 750 0 0 20 30 5 73 10 5 20

Surirella sp. 0 1600 337 0 0 150 0 0 0 0 45 5

Gomphonema sp. 0 0 0 0 0 60 0 0 0 0 0 0

Navicula sp. 33 20 45 0 150 170 40 5 93 0 0 15

Nitzschia sp. 40 20 0 40 3000 10 20 10 113 30 30 15

Euglena sp. 0 40 0 0 50 0 0 0 7 0 0 0

Phacus sp. 27 80 45 0 0 20 0 10 13 10 35 0

Peridinium sp. 0 0 0 0 5000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total Phytoplankton 466 4040 1351 510 9650 535 160 95 366 80 215 85

Cyanophyta (Blue-green)

Bacillariophyta (Diatom)

Euglenophyta

Dinophyta

Months

Table-1-Diversity and density (unit x 1000 /L ) of Phytoplankton from Karave pond


Density wise dominance was recorded by Nitzschia sp. followed by Surirella sp. This appeared in 90% and 50% samples

respectively. The maximum density of Nitzschia sp. was recorded in month of June and minima was observed in month

of July and September.

Dinophyta appeared to be second dominant group in quantitative component of total phytoplankton. However, the

group was recorded occasionally represented by only one member i.e. Peridinium sp. The Oscillatoria sp. was recorded as

the most dominant member of blue green algae and recorded in 70% samples.

Nine genera of Chlorophyta were noted during present study. Density wise dominance was recorded by

Monoraphidium sp. followed by Chlorella sp. The occurrence

of Monoraphidium sp. was recorded in 90% samples and its

peak was noted in the month of March. The decline in

population was observed in the month of January.

Euglenophyta appeared to be minor group of

phytoplankton qualitatively as well as quantitatively.

The physico-chemical parameters of water are summarized

in Table 2. The community exhibited positive correlation

with Conductance and Dissolved Oxygen.

CONCLUSION

The phytoplankton community of the pond exhibited low

diversity. Diatoms and Green algal group both were

represented by nine members each. However, only one or

two members showed consistent presence. The Simpson's index (D) varied between 0.54 to 0.89. Ten genera of

phytoplankton in the pond were pollution tolerant (Palmer, 1969) reaching score of 30, indicating high organic

pollution. Heavy growth of macrophytes in pond had possible influence on the abundance and diversity of

phytoplankton.

REFERENCES

APHA, AWWA, WPCF (1980) International Standard methods for the examination for the examination of water and waste water, 15th edition, Wasington D.C., pp. 874

Bellinger E.E. (1992) A key to common algae, Freshwater, Estuarine and some Coastal species, The Institute of water and environment management, London, pp. 138

Bhoyar V.V. and Tamloorkar H.L. (2012) Seasonal variations in phytoplankton abundance of Ambona Lake Maharashtra, International Multidisciplinary Research Journal, 2(5): 33-35

Fritsch F.E. (1979) The structure and reproduction of alage, Vol. 1 and 2, Vikas Publishing House.

Karthi N., Vachanth M.C. and Sridharan G. (2013) Studies on phytoplankton diversity in Vaduvurlake at Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu, India, International Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences, 3(1): 227-230

Palmer C.M. (1969) A composite rating of algae tolerating organic pollution, J. Phycology, 5: 78-82

PriyaGopinath T. and Ajit Kumar K.G. (2015) Micro algal diversity of the fresh water lake in Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala, International Journal of Plant, Animal and Environmental Sciences, 5(1): 288-291

Sakhare S.S. and Kamble N.A. (2014) Phytoplankton as biological indicators in lentic hydrosphere from Gadhinglaj, Asian J. Biol. Life Sci., 3(1): 49-55

Sarode P.T. and Kamat N.D. (1984) Freshwater Diatoms of Maharashtra, Saikripa Prakashan, Aurangabad, pp. 338

Trivedy R.K. and Goel P.K. (1984) Chemical and Biological methods for water pollution studies, Environmental Publications, Karad.

S. No. Min Max Avg

1 22 30 26.33

2 7.14 8.16 7.63

3 40 70 57.17

4 180 3640 1121.67

5 140 2840 804.17

6 20 800 317.5

7 0.4132 1.0393 0.68

8 15.4 26.4 23.1

9 42.6 127.8 89.1

10 0.1 0.26 0.18

11 1.62 7 3.9

12 125 255 201.25

13 4 18 7.92

14 0.05 0.56 0.22

15 0.2 0.9 0.53Nitrate (mg/L)

Salinity %

Dissolved oxygen (mg/L)

Total alkalinity (mg/L)

Reactive Silica (mg/L)

Inorganic Phosphorus (mg/L)

Total dissolved solids (mg/L)

Total suspended solids (mg/L)

Conductivity (mS)

Free CO2 (mg/L)

Chlorides (mg/L)

Temperature °C

pH

Total solids (mg/L)

Light penetration (cm)

Name of the parameters

Table 2: Physico-Chemical parameters recorded from Karave Pond

Painted Stork


Safety in Numbers: Observations on Communal Ovipositing among Rhinocypha bisignata and Copera vittata

Balachandran V.Padma Vilas, TC 25/945, Aristo - New Theater Road, East Thampanoor, Trivandrum - 695 014

Communal or social ovipositing by different species of odonates is not an uncommon behavior among Damselflies

(suborder Zygoptera). On a slow-moving forest stream it was observed that two females of Rhinocypha bisignata and

Copera vittata were ovipositing in close proximity, with a male R. bisignata standing guard nearby on a perch. The presence

of a larva of Calopterygidae family was also noted at the same site.

The study was conducted on 23 January 2015 between 10:30–11:30 hrs. The temperature was 28°C under the shade and

the altitude was 250-300 mts. The study area was Thodayar River near Chathancode Kani tribal settlement, Peppara

Wildlife Sanctuary, Trivandrum District, Kerala, India (8°38'50?N 77°10'0?E).

Chathancode Kani tribal settlement is situated in Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, on the banks of a perennial forest stream

Thodayar that flows into Peppara Reservoir. The riverine forests are of semi-evergreen type. Odonates such as

Vestalis apicalis, V. gracilis, Neurobasis chinensis, Rhinosypha bisignata, Euphaea fraseri, Copera vittata, Trithemis aurora, T. festiva,

Orthetrum Sabina, O. pruinosum, O. chrysis, Onychothemis testacea, among others have been noticed in the vicinity of this

stream.

R. bisignata (chlorociphidae) is a stream-breeding species endemic to India, more commonly found in forest streams in

the peninsular region (Kiran and Raju, 2013). C. vittata (Platycnemididae) is also found in standing water habitats,

streams, swamps, etc. They are very common around forest streams in Kerala. On 23 January 2015, while wading

through the stream, at an area where the water moved slowly around rocks and leaf litter floated around, it was seen that

a confrontation between two male R. bisignata was going on. On closer observation it could be noted that two female

R. bisignata were ovipositing nearby. Zygoptera generally oviposit endophytically by descending beneath the water

(Corbet, 1962), though it is not known whether these two species are endophytic. One of the male R. bisignata often

returned to a nearby perch in between chasing the other male away. The ovipositing individuals seemed not to be much

disturbed by human presence; nor did the male R. bisignata. On closer inspection, it was discovered that a female of

C. vittata was also ovipositing very near to the above said R. bisignata. The ovipositing site was a small log of wood

floating in shallow water. Due to the surrounding rocks, it might be safely assumed that the log would not be carried

away by the water. There were a lot of leaves in various stages of decay at the site. A male C. vittata was spotted nearby but

moved away nearer to the stream bank later. However, males of all odonates do not necessarily be present at the time of

oviposition (Young, 1967). The ovipositing continued for nearly 15 minutes after which the females of the species

moved away. Ovipositing in a group is a common characteristic of R. bisignata (Nair, 2011). The male R. bisignata

Rhinocypha bisignata - Female Rhinocypha bisignata - Male

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continued to keep his vigil at the perch for another 10 minutes. Very close to the ovipositing site, a Calopterygidae

(Glories - damselfly) larva could be seen beneath the water. This is indicative of the fact that the particular egg-laying site

is favoured by species of different families.

Instances of communal ovipositing have been observed in Europe, especially among damselflies (suborder Zygoptera)

of similar size. Odonates are quite vulnerable to predation during ovipositing. It may be that communal ovipositing

ensures more safety. It might be of interest to observe such symbiotic association among odonates. This social activity

offers a different perspective on odonates which are usually described as ferocious and cannibalistic. Further communal

studies of odonata, centered on ovipositing locations could reveal unknown aspects of odonata behavior.

References

Corbet PS (1962) A Biology of Dragonflies. H.F. & G Witherby Ltd. London pp. 247

Kiran CG and Raju DV (2013) Dragonflies and Damselflies of Kerala. TIES, Kottayam, India pp. 156

Nair MV (2011) Dragonflies and Damselflies of Orissa and Eastern India. Forests & Environment Department, Govt. of Orissa, Bhubaneswar

Young AM (1967) Oviposition Behavior in Two Species of Dragonflies. The Ohio Journal of Science. 67 (5): 313–316 http://hdl.handle.net/1811/5336 Downloaded from the Knowledge Bank, The Ohio State University's institutional repository

Seasonal variation in heterotrophic bacterial density from the mudflats of Salav coast, District Raigad, Maharashtra, India

Kurve Poonam, Mathias Sonal, Gholba Milan, Joshi AshutoshVPM's B. N. Bandodkar College of Science, Chendani, Thane 400 601

ABSTRACT

Variation in culturable aerobic heterotrophic bacterial cell density in comparison to the sediment characteristics from

the mudflats of Salav Coast, Raigad, Maharashtra, India was studied. Seasonal sediment samples were collected during

August 2013 to March 2014 from two sampling stations at Salav. The bacterial count showed significant increase in Post

Monsoon and Monsoon season respectively. Statistical analysis showed that there is negative correlation between the

bacterial count and physicochemical parameters. Whereas, pH - salinity and temperature - salinity showed positive

correlation at both the sampling stations.

Keywords: Salav, aerobic heterotrophic bacteria, Pour plate technique

INTRODUCTION

Bacteria are one of the most important microorganisms in food chains as they are responsible for decomposing organic

matter and recycling nutrients in the environment. Aquatic ecosystems support variety of microorganisms from

halophiles to extremophiles. Marine ecosystem is one of the most diverse aquatic habitat which shelters bacterial

assemblage in open waters as well as sediments from the inter-tidal zone to deep sea. Marine environment includes many

aligned ecosystems such as salt marshes, littoral zone, estuaries, mangroves, coral reef, sea floor etc. Estuarine water

being mix of marine and fresh water reveals remarkable variety of flora and fauna.

Wetland sediments are a complex, diverse environment for investigation and provide niche for various microbes

(Xuezheng et al., 2014). Diversity and abundance of bacterial flora depends on the physicochemical parameters of water

as well as sediment. Distribution of bacterial population and their correlation with temperature, salinity, abundance of

organic nutrients and other physico-chemical parameters are regularly studied (Sri Ramkumar et. al., 2011). Attempts

have been made to characterize heterotrophic bacteria in various coastal and estuarine areas (Sri Ramkumar et al., 2011,

Saravanan et al., 2014). Seasonal variation in the diversity and density of heterotrophic bacterial count in sediments has

always been an interesting aspect of micro-ecology (Ramya et al., 2013). Effect of abiotic factors on distribution of


bacterial species with characterisation and identification of various genera, gives an insight on the dynamics of microbe-

sediment interactions (Sri Ramkumar et al., 2011). It is therefore important to study the occurrence and diversity of

microorganisms in estuarine environment and role they play in the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients (Das et al.,

2007).

Studies have been undertaken to identify the fungal communities and dominant bacterial classes in sediment of varied

environment (Dafini et al., 2013; Ramya et al., 2013). Culture dependent methods for identification and phylogenetic

methods with culture independent methods have revolutionized the diversity analysis approach and also highlighted the

role of these microbes in nutrient cycling (Xuezheng et al., 2014).

The objective of the present study was to investigate the density of culturable aerobic heterotrophic bacterial

communities present along the mudflats of Salav Coast, Raigad, Maharashtra, India. This study tries to establish inter-

relationship between density of bacterial flora and changes in the environmental parameters.

STUDY AREA

Salav is a village located along the Konkan region, in Raigad District of Maharashtra State. In recent years, the village has

observed an increase in tourism activities that has lead to changes in the ecological setup. Microbiological studies was a

part of the larger ecological studies undertaken along the coast of the Salav village for a duration of one year covering

three seasons from March 2013 to February 2014. The sediment samples were collected from the coastal mudflats

adjoining the village by selecting two stations viz. Salav I and Salav II with different landscapes and ecological

conditions.

Salav I (18°32'0.26" N and 72°55'30.70" E), the study location is open sea and has an industrial unit of Vikram Ispat in

the vicinity. It comprises of rocky and muddy habitat, sheltering molluscs, macro-algae with scanty mangrove cover.

Salav II (18°32'19.82" N and 72°56'7.71" E) is muddy creek area. It shows dense mangrove cover, with Avicennia sp.

dominating the habitat. The area has sparse population of fisherman community where fishing activities are

undertaken.

Sediment samples were collected in sterile plastic vials from surface of mudflats exposed during low tide, seasonally (Pre

monsoon, Monsoon and post monsoon) from both the stations. Samples were transported and kept in cool conditions

until further laboratory processing and analysis. Physico-chemical and bacterial analysis of the samples was carried out

within 24 hours of collection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Physicochemical Parameters

Physicochemical parameters viz, temperature, pH and salinity of the sediment were analyzed. Sediment temperature

was recorded at sampling sites using alcohol thermometer. Sediment pH was determined using a pH meter while salinity

was determined using Argentometric method (Trivedi and Goel, 1984).

Image courtesy: Google Earth Imagery


Microbiological Analysis

Sediment samples (1g) collected from study locations were transferred aseptically to a sterile flask containing 10 ml

autoclave-sterilized saline. Diluted sample in triplicate were placed on Zobell Marine Agar 2216 (HiMedia Laboratories,

India), a medium for isolation and enumeration of marine heterotrophic bacteria. Temperature of incubation and pH

of medium were adjusted in accordance with the sediment pH and temperature. The plates were incubated at 28±1°C

for 72 hours, and then the colonies were counted. Enumeration of bacteria was done using standard serial dilution and

pour plate technique. The viable heterotrophic bacteria were then counted according to the colony-forming unit (CFU)

method. Bacterial counts were represented as cfu/g for each sediment sample (Xuezheng et al., 2014; Das et al., 2007; Sri

Ramkumar et al., 2011; Dafini et al., 2013).

The data obtained was analyzed using Correlation matrix to establish correlation between bacterial count and

physicochemical parameters.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Seasonal variation in average bacterial count (cfu/g) and

physicochemical parameters viz. pH, temperature and salinity

is presented in Table 1. The bacterial count shows peak value

in Post Monsoon season (2.71 X 108 cfu/g) at Salav I while in

Monsoon (1.01 X 108 cfu/g) at Salav II. The variation in

bacterial density except monsoon season at Salav I showed

greater bacterial density than Salav II (Fig. 1). The Mean

bacterial density for all seasons at Salav I is more than that of

Salav II. This may be due to anthropogenic disturbances such

release of domestic sewage and pollution due to tourism.

The correlation matrix for Salav I and II presented in Tables 2 & 3 reveals weak negative correlation of the bacterial

count with pH and temperature. This could be possibly because higher temperature and pH are unfavorable for the

growth of microorganism. The matrix also shows that there is no correlation between bacterial density and salinity

(0.0009) at Salav I, whereas at Salav II shows strong negative correlation indicating harmful effects of salinity (-0.774) on

microbial growth. On the contrary pH and temperature have almost perfectly positive correlation at both the sampling

stations supporting their interdependence. A significantly positive correlation between salinity-pH and Salinity-

temperature is also observed, this is can be attributed to the increase in activity of free ions associated with the increase

Fig. 1 Seasonal Variation in Bacterial Density

Season Bacterial count (cfu/g)

pH Temperature (0C)

Salinity (ppt)

Premonsoon 8.37 X 107 8.3 29.2 35.9

Monsoon 9.34 X 107 7.7 26.3 25.82

Postmonsoon 2.71 X 108 7.75 26.5 31.27

Mean bacterial Density

14.93 X 107

Premonsoon 6.01 X 107 7.9 27.8 32.1

Monsoon 1.01 X 108 7.2 26.5 19.92

Postmonsoon 4.77 X 107 7.3 26.7 26.66

Mean bacterial Density

6.96 X 107

Station Season Bacterial count

(cfu/g) pH

Temperature (0C)

Salinity (ppt)

SALAV I

Pre-monsoon 8.37 X 107 8.3 29.2 35.9

Monsoon 9.34 X 107 7.7 26.3 25.82

Post-monsoon 2.71 X 108

7.75 26.5 31.27 Mean bacterial Density

14.93 X 107

SALAV II

Pre-monsoon 6.01 X 107

7.9 27.8 32.1 Monsoon 1.01 X 108

7.2 26.5 19.92 Post-monsoon

4.77 X 107

7.3

26.7

26.66

Mean bacterial

Density

6.96 X 107

Table 1 Seasonal variation in average bacterial count and physicochemical parameters

Diurnal wintering behaviour of the Marbled Teal (Marmaronetta angustirostris) in north-east Algeria

a b a c aMeriem Aberkane , Mohamed-Chérif Maazi , Farah Chettibi , El-Yamine Guergueb , Zihad Bouslama and Moussa

c*HouhamdiaFaculté des Sciences, Département de Biologie, Université Badji Mokhtar de Annaba, BP 291, 1erNovembre, Ain Beida wilaya

d’Oum El Bouaghi, 04200, Annaba, Algérie; bFaculté SNV, Département de Biologie, Université Mohamed Cherif Messaadia, Cité Premier novembre, Souk-Ahras 41000, Algérie;

cFaculté SNV-STU, Laboratoire Biologie, Eau et Environnement (LBEE),Département des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université 08 Mai 1945 de Guelma, Commune de Ain Makhlouf, 24200 wilaya

de Guelma, Guelma, Algérie

ABSTRACT

The Marbled Teal, Marmaronetta angustirostris, is a globally threatened species, especially in the Western Mediterranean. Its numbers are currently following a downward trend. The population size and status of the Marbled Teal are well estimated in some areas of its geographic range, but in others, such as Algerian wetlands, they are still not known. Population and time-activity budget estimation of the species were carried out in the semi-arid Ramsar wetland Garaet Timerganine located in north-east Algeria in the course of two subsequent wintering seasons. The wintering population showed a significant decrease in numbers from the first to the second year with peaks of 763 and 270 individuals, respectively. This variation was probably due to the abrupt water level rise in the wetland, scarcity of the vegetation cover and availability of many other wintering places following heavy rains in the second year. The time-activity budget was dominated by resting followed by swimming and feeding. Preening, flight and courting were rarely observed accounting for less than 5% of the whole diurnal activity budget. Although the species preferred shallow parts of the wetland, it also used terrestrial habitats near the shore.

Keywords: Marbled Teal; threatened; activity budget; Ramsar site; Algeria

Source: Zoology and Ecology (2014)


in pH and temperature. This could be because of loss of water by evaporation will consequently increase concentration

of chloride ions which is also evident from the data as it shows highest values in pre-monsoon (summer) season at both

the stations.

The seasonal variation in bacterial count was observed, higher total viable counts were observed in monsoon season

when compared to post-monsoon and pre-monsoon. Similar observations have been reported at many locations along

coast of Gujarat (Mohandas et al., 2000). During our study, we noted that the bacterial count at Salav II was higher as

compared to Salav I during the monsoon season as compared to the other seasons. Bacterial count in sediment samples

varied from 8.37 X 107 to 2.71 X 108 cfu/g registering minimum and maximum during pre-monsoon and post-

monsoon seasons (Table 1). High counts in sediment at Salav II were recorded during monsoon season, may be due

better survival of microbes by dilution of stress causing factors present in the environment (Borade et al., 2015;

Rosa et al., 2001). Anthropogenic activities like tourism and release of domestic sewage near the coast could be major

factor for microfloral abundance of the habitat.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The encouragement and logistic support provided by the management and principal of VPM’s B.N.Bandodkar College

of Science is greatfully acknowledged.

REFERENCES

Borade S., Dhawde R., Maloo S., Gajbiye Ram A. and Dastager S. (2015) Assessment of enteric bacterial indicators and

correlation with physicochemical parameters in Veraval coast, India. Indian J. Mar. Sci., 44 (45): 19-524

Dafini M., Ramya K.D, Jacob J. and Philip R. (2013) Heterotrophic bacterial and fungal diversity in the inner shelf

sediments of central west coast of India. Adv. Appl. Sci. Res., 4(4): 490-500

Das S., Lyla P. and Khan S. (2007) Biogeochemical processes in the continental slope of Bay of Bengal: I. Bacterial

solubilization of inorganic phosphate. Rev. Biol. Trop.,55 (1): 1-9

Mohandas C., Shanta N., Achtankutty C.T. and Lokbharti P.A. (2000) Pollution monitoring of coastal and estuarine

areas, I-bacterial indicators along the south Gujarat Coast. Ind. J. of Mar. Sci., 29: 43-47

Ramya K.D., Jacob J., Correya N., Singh B. and Philip R. (2013) Biogeochemistry of the shelf sediments of south

eastern Arabian sea: Effect on benthic bacterial heterotrophs. Adv. Appl. Sci. Res., 4(3): 315-328

Rosa T., Mrito S., Marino A., Alonzo V., Maugeri T.L. and Mazola A. (2001) Heterotrophic bacterial community and

pollution indicators of mussels farm impact in the gulf of Gaeta. Mar. Environ. Res., 52: 301-321

Saravanan S., Sivakumar T., Thamizhmani R. and Senthil kumaran R. (2013) Studies on Bacterial Diversity in Marine

ecosystem of Parangipettai, Tamil Nadu, India. Int. J. Curr. Microbiol. App.Sci., 2(1): 20-32

Sri Ramkumar V., Kannapiran E. and Palanisamy M. (2011) Prevalence and distribution of total heterotrophic bacteria

from Kottaipattinam Coast, Palk Strait, Southeast Coast of India. Arch. Appl. Sci. Res., 3 (5): 593-598

Trivedi R.K. and Goel P.K. (1984) Chemical and Biological Methods for Water Pollution Studies. Environmental

Publication, India.

Xuezheng L., Zhen W., Shuai C., Weizhi S. and Dan Y. (2014) Bacterial diversity in Arctic marine sediment determined

by culture-dependent and independent approaches. J. Adv. Ps., 25(1): 46-53

Table 2 Correlation Matrix: Salav-I Table 3 Correlation Matrix Salav-II Bacterial count

pH

Temperature

Salinity

Microbial count

1

pH -0.419 1 Temperature -0.428 0.999 1 Salinity

-0.774

0.880

0.904

1

Bacterial count

pH

Temperature

Salinity

Bacterial count

1

pH -0.475 1

Temperature

-0.486

0.999

1

Salinity

0.0009

0.880

0.873

1


Abstracts from Published Literature

Vertical distribution of zooplankton in Lake Nassera,* b a b

Nehad Khalifa , Khaled A. El-Damhogy , M. Reda Fishar , Amr M. Nasef ,aMahmoud H. Hegab

a National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, 101 Kasr El Aini Street, Cairo, Egyptb Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

ABSTRACT

The composition and distribution of zooplankton communities in three depths (surface, 10–5 m and 20–15 m depths

along main channel of Lake Nasser were studied in 2013. The density of total zooplankton was increased to maximum -3

during winter and autumn at surface water (39,362 and 63,100 Ind. m , respectively) and gradually decreased with depth -3until attaining the lowest average density at 20–15 m (12,460 and 8976 Ind. m ). During spring and summer,

zooplankton was irregularly distributed through the water profile, where the highest average density was recorded at -3

10–5 mdepth (66,007 and 66,734 Ind. m ). Copepoda was the dominant zooplankton group at all depths, it represented

about 70–76.2% of the total zooplankton count. Cladocera formed about 13.4%, 14.5% and 11% of total zooplankton

density for surface, 10–5 m and 20–15 m depth. It was decreased with increasing depth during winter and autumn;

however it attained its maximum density at 10–5 m depth during spring and summer. Rotifera average density decreased

with increasing depth. The dominant zooplankton species inhabiting Lake Nasser were strongly temperature-

dependent. The study recommends the introduction of some pelagic fish species to consume the high persistence of

zooplankton community at the upper 10 meters of water column.

Keywords: Lake Nasser, Vertical distribution, Zooplankton, Copepoda

Source: Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Research (2015) 41 : 177–185

Studies on Phytoplankton population and species diversity in three wetlands of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India

1 2 3* 4Ilangovan, R., Manikandan, R., Ezhili, N. and Subramaniam, K.1 Quality Control Division, Water Resource Department, PWD, Coimbatore – 01, Tamil Nadu, India

2 Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University, Salem – 11, Tamil Nadu, India3 Department of Zoology, PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Peelamedu, Coimbatore – 104, Tamil Nadu, India

ABSTRACT

The present study concerns monthly variations of phytoplankton species composition, population density, species

diversity during September 2012 to March 2013 in Ukkadam, Kuruchi and Singanallur Lakes Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,

India. The total of 20 (Ukkadam Lake), 34 (Kuruchi Lake) and 26 genera (Siganallur Lake) were identified under

phytoplankton diversity in studied three lakes. Present study revealed maximum sp. composition of Chlorophyceae (15

species), Bacillariophyceae (12 species) and Euglenophyceae (6 species) were recorded at Kuruchi Lake. When

compared genera wise, Euglenophyceae group were rarely found in both Ukkadam Lake and Singanallur Lake during

the study period, it was indicated that these lakes were polluted by organic components. The present baseline

information of the phytoplankton distribution and abundance would form a useful tool for further ecological

assessment and monitoring of these lakes of Coimbatore.

Keywords: Eutrophication, Phytoplankton, Species Diversity, Wetlands.

Source: International Journal of Current Research (2014) 6(8) : 7968-7972


Source: Hindustan Times e-Paper - ‘Pollutants destroyed 90% fish species in Thane creek’ - 15 Feb 2016 - Page #11

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