CLADOCERAN ZOOPLANKTON BIODIVERSITY IN OBUEYINOMO RIVER, AGEMOPA COMMUNITY, OVIA NORTH EAST, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

This study examined the biodiversity and distribution of Cladoceran zooplankton in Obueyinomo River, Agemopa Community, Edo State, focusing on the relationship between species abundance and water quality. Nine taxa of Cladoceran species were identified, with significant variation in their distribution across the sampling stations. Dominant species included Chydorus sphaericus, Diaphanosoma sarsi, Alona eximia, and Bosmina longistrostris. Seasonal variations significantly affected species abundance, with Stations 1 and 3 showing higher organism counts during the wet season, whereas Station 1 exhibits greater abundance in the dry season. Water quality parameters such as salinity, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient concentrations were analyzed for their influence on Cladoceran populations. The study found that high salinity and chloride concentrations had a negative impact on most species, while Bosmina showed a preference for environments with higher nutrient levels. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that temperature and human-induced pollution were major drivers of water quality variations. The results emphasize the need for effective water quality management to preserve Cladoceran biodiversity and highlight their role as bioindicators for monitoring the health of freshwater ecosystems. This research provides valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of Obueyinomo River, with implications for the conservation and management of similar aquatic environments.