"Taxonomy And Ecological Distribution Of Ciliated Protozoa (Phylum: Ciliophora) In Freshwater Reservoirs Of Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

This study delves into the taxonomy and ecological distribution of ciliated protozoa (Phylum: Ciliophora) in freshwater reservoirs, with a specific focus on three reservoirs in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. Ciliates are crucial players in maintaining the biological balance of aquatic ecosystems, regulating bacterial populations, facilitating organic matter biodegradation, and contributing to the formation of biological flocs. The research aimed to identify and describe cultivable ciliate species within these reservoirs, shedding light on their role in these dynamic environments. A total of 15 ciliate genera were identified, representing various taxonomic classes, including Oligohymenophora, Spirotrichea, Heterotrichea, Prorodontida, Phyllopharyngea, and order Armophorida. The study considered the relative richness of these genera in each reservoir, revealing variations in their distribution patterns. Physico-chemical factors such as substrate composition, temperature, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), alkalinity, ammonia, and pH were found to play crucial roles in shaping the ciliate community structure. Station-II exhibited the highest nutrient levels and consequently hosted the most abundant and diverse ciliate fauna, featuring eight different genera. In contrast, Station-I had fewer nutrients and seven ciliate genera, while Station-III, rich in nutrients, harbored a remarkable 11 genera. These findings underline the significance of physico-chemical factors in shaping ciliate communities within freshwater ecosystems. The specificity of ciliate genera to particular habitats was evident, although their presence was also influenced by various environmental factors. This research contributes valuable insights into the ecology of ciliated protozoa and their role in maintaining the ecological balance of freshwater reservoirs, providing a foundation for further studies in this field.