Cluster analysis of physical, chemical and nutrient parameters of three freshwater temple ponds at Thirupparankundram near Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

In the present investigation, the physical, chemical and nutrient parameters of three freshwater temple ponds at Thirupparankundram, Madurai. Tamil Nadu, India was studied. The observations were made on the monthly changes in 15 surface water parameters for a period of three years from September 2009 to August 2012. Most of the parameters were within the permissible limits. The physical, chemical and nutrient parameters also seem to show a clear clustering among the various parameters. This relationship was found to be influenced by the seasonal changes and altitudinal variations.