Assessment of Macrophyte Diversity and Seasonal Variations in Two Freshwater Lakes of Jaipur District, Rajasthan

Abstract

Introduction: Macrophytes play a crucial role in maintaining freshwater ecosystem health and are effective indicators of water quality. Mansagar Lake (urban) and Chandlai Lake (peri-urban), located in Jaipur District, Rajasthan, offer contrasting environmental and trophic conditions suitable for ecological comparison.

Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the diversity and ecological role of macrophyte communities in the two lakes and assess their potential as bioindicators for water quality monitoring.

Methods: A year-long field investigation was conducted across the summer, monsoon, and winter seasons. Macrophytes from littoral and sub-littoral zones were sampled and categorized into four ecological groups: free-floating, submerged, marginal, and emergent.

Results: A year-long field investigation was conducted across summer, monsoon, and winter seasons. Macrophytes from littoral and sub-littoral zones were sampled and categorized into four ecological groups: free-floating, submerged, marginal, and emergent.

Conclusions: The study confirms the utility of macrophytes as reliable bioindicators for freshwater quality. Their diversity patterns offer a nature-based, cost-effective approach for monitoring aquatic health in semi-arid environments.