Systematic descriptions and seasonal variations of mollusc in Chandigarh (U.T., India) and its surrounding freshwater bodies

Abstract

The present study is the first attempt to study the taxonomy and diversity of molluscan fauna from freshwater bodies of Chandigarh (U.T.) and Ghaggar River flowing on its southeast border. A total of 24 molluscan species (17 gastropods, 3 bivalves and 4 land snails) were collected from the selected sites. Physa acuta was found showing ubiquitous occurrence along with its maximum abundance in all water bodies followed by Melanoides tuberculata. Less biodiversity and the presence of tolerant species indicated that majority of the water bodies under study are under a great threat of degradation. The results of this study will contribute to the knowledge of the regional malacofauna along with identification of the sites facing natural and human interferences.