Diversity, Abundance, and Seasonal Variation of Aquatic Macrophytes in Southeastern Bangladesh

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the diversity and abundance of aquatic macrophytes in the southeastern region of Bangladesh, encompassing the Noakhali, Cumilla, and Chandpur districts. The study was carried out over the period of July 2022 to June 2023. This research utilized a mixed-methods approach, incorporating observation of the study area, qualitative interviews, and quantitative surveys.  Five types of aquatic macrophytes, 47 species from 18 orders and 25 families were identified. These are free-floating, rooted-floating, emergent, submerged, and marginal.  Among the three locations, Noakhali was recorded as the highest with 44 species, followed by Cumilla with 43, and Chandpur with 35. In Noakhali, seasonal variation analysis showed that 39% of species were found in the rainy season, 14% in summer, 14% in winter, and 20% year-round. In Cumilla, 35% of aquatic macrophytes were available in the rainy season, and 14%, 12%, and 5% in winter, spring, and autumn, respectively. In Chandpur, 37% of aquatic macrophytes were prevalent in the rainy season, 26% were found year-round, 9% in winter, 14% in summer, and 6% each in spring and autumn. In Noakhali, 44% of macrophytes were frequent, 33% moderate, and 23% rare. In Cumilla, 49% were frequent, 44% moderate, and 14% rare. Chandpur reported 49% frequent, 31% moderate, and 20% rare species. The order Alismatales emerged as the dominant order comparatively across all locations. This research will provide insights into the biodiversity of aquatic macrophytes in this area, thus supporting effective management strategies.