Ecological studies on the aquatic macro-invertebrate population dynamics of the snow-fed Kali River in Uttarakhand, India

Freshwater macro-invertebrates are the bottom dwelling organisms. Their presence, distribution and diversity is affected by many eco-biological factors. The aim of this study was to assess the factors that impact upon the population dynamics of macro- invertebrates, while correlating the relationship between various physio-chemical parameters and macro-invertebrates from the Kali River, Pithoragarh (Uttarakhand). The samples were collected using a quartet square in the sampling area of one square feet of the stream bed, which was then, after placing in 70% alcohol, taken to the laboratory for identification and enumeration. A total of 24 genera and 28 species were found during the study, which belongs to 3 phylum, 5 classes, 10 order and 20 families. A total of eight physiochemical parameters were studied on a monthly basis round the year. The ecological impact was measured by establishing the correlation between recorded physio-chemical parameters and invertebrates’ diversity, in which water temperature, air temperature, velocity, and conductivity showed a negative correlation while pH, DO, total alkalinity, and total hardness showed a positive correlation. Various alpha diversity indices were estimated with the help of PAST software which indicated diverse macro-invertebrate communities in the Kali River in District Pithoragarh.