ABSTRACT
The Kuttanad wetlands of Kerala represent a unique and ecologically sensitive hydrological system where water quality dynamics play a critical role in regulating biological productivity. This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics and phytoplankton diversity across four sites in the Kainakari Panchayat from February 2023 to April 2024. Standard APHA procedures were used to analyse water quality parameters, while phytoplankton were identified microscopically and quantified to the lowest taxonomic level. A total of 55 phytoplankton species belonging to Cyanophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Chrysophyceae, and Dinophyceae were recorded, with Chlorophyceae showing the highest richness. Spatial variations in nitrate and phosphate strongly influenced phytoplankton distribution, with nitrate-rich Kuppapuram (S1) supporting peak diatom densities and phosphate-rich Punnamada (S4) favouring green algae proliferation. Diversity indices indicated a highly stable ecosystem, with Shannon - Wiener values ranging from 3.853 to 3.892. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between diatoms and nitrate concentration and between green algae and phosphate concentration, suggesting nutrient-driven niche differentiation. PCA further distinguished the sites along major nutrient gradients. The present study highlights the significance of nutrient dynamics in shaping community structure and emphasizes the value of phytoplankton as sensitive bioindicators for monitoring the ecological health of the Kuttanad wetlands.
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