Quantification and Visualization of the Variability of Phytoplankton Assemblage in a Semi-lotic Seasonal Canal in Sundarbans, India

Canals of Sundarbans in India are highly vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures which directly or indirectly impact the biological components such ecosystems. Being at base trophic pyramid, phytoplankton is exposed environmental stressors and will be reflected upper strata aquatic food chain. Hence, communities along with their interrelationship parameters were assessed Bhetkimari canal, a semi-lotic system Indian during June 2017 September 2018. Seventy-seven species under 66 genera recorded Cyanophyceae (34%) as major contributor, followed by Bacillariophyceae (31%) Chlorophyceae (22%). Diatoms dominated round year terms diversity (25 species) maximum contribution from Pennales. ANOVA (post-hoc test) showed significant temporal heterogeneity (p≤0.05) distribution canal. The Margalef richness index (d) Shannon-Weiner ( H′ ) 2.59±0.43 2.26±0.59, respectively indicating that environment good moderate. Water temperature, dissolved oxygen, total alkalinity nutrients (nitrate, silicate phosphate) explanatory variables shaping assemblages was evident Canonical correspondence analysis. salient findings this study can add existing knowledge on abundance pattern canal environments, help planning better management ecosystems for sustainable utilization.