Seasonal Dynamics and Taxonomic Diversity of Microalgal Communities in Sholavaram Lake, Redhills, India

Abstract

The present study examines the diversity and seasonal variation of microalgal communities in the study area. A total of 63 species were identified, comprising both prokaryotic and eukaryotic groups. Cyanobacteria contributed 17 species, while eukaryotic microalgae dominated with 46 species distributed among Chlorophyta, Charophyta, Bacillariophyta, Dinoflagellata, Heterokontophyta, and Euglenophyta. Chlorophyta was the most dominant group (21 species), followed by Bacillariophyta (11 species) and Charophyta (7 species). Genera such as Desmodesmus, Scenedesmus, Cosmarium, and Nitzschia were prominent, indicating ecological adaptability. The presence of pollution-tolerant taxa suggests moderate nutrient enrichment. Seasonal analysis revealed 46 species in summer and 47 in winter, with 30 species common to both seasons. Sixteen species were exclusive to summer, while seventeen were restricted to winter. Bacillariophyta dominated during winter, whereas Cyanobacteria remained relatively stable. Physicochemical analysis was not carried out due to limitations in the availability of required analytical facilities and resources during the study period. The study primarily focused on the qualitative and seasonal assessment of phytoplankton diversity. To the best of our knowledge, updated, comprehensive assessments of the microalgal diversity and seasonal occurrence of phytoplankton in Sholavaram Lake are limited.