The Effect of physico-chemical parameters and heavy metals on plankton communities in Kafin Gama Dam

Abstract

^{ABSTRACT
Plankton are crucial components of aquatic ecosystems and play a vital role in nutrient cycling and primary production. This study aim to assess the effect of physicochemical parameters and heavy metals on plankton in Kafin Gana Dam. Sampling was conducted monthly from March to August 2024 covering the dry and rainy seasons. Water samples from four sites were analyzed for physicochemical parameters, and heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Mn, Pb). Plankton were collected using planktonic net of 55µm mesh size by hauling horizontally for five meters. Field and laboratory activities were carried out using standard protocols. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the means of various parameters between months, and Pearson’s correlation was used to test the relationship between various parameters The study concluded that the physico-chemical parameters of water in Kafin Gana Dam significantly influence the aquatic ecosystem. Most values remained within the acceptable range for aquatic life, highlighting the dam’s moderate water quality for sustaining plankton diversity. Phytoplankton was characterized by four phyla: Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Euglenophyceae, and Cyanophyceae, while three phyla represented the zooplankton: Rotifera, Cladocera, and Copepoda. Plankton populations were significantly higher during the dry season than in the rainy season, and spatial abundance was highest in areas with minimal anthropogenic activity, while areas with poor water quality showed reduced plankton abundance. Significant correlations were observed between physicochemical parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and plankton abundance. The findings highlight the critical need for sustainable management to ensure the dam’s ecological balance and utility.}