Rotifer community in Manasbal Lake of Kashmir

Abstract

Species composition and distribution of Rotifera was studied in Manasbal Lake. Thirty three taxa of Rotifera belonging to 17 genera and 7 families were recorded. Rotifer community was characterised by high richness of family Brachionidae. Higher density of the group was recorded at macrophyte infested littoral area. Rotifer richness showed a positive relationship with water temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity and negative relation with depth, total phosphorus, nitrate nitrogen, alkalinity, hardness, carbon dioxide and chloride. Rotifer density was lower at outlet zone due to flushing of water.