A Comparative Study of Zooplankton with Water Quality Parameters of Three Different Freshwater Ecosystems of Tirunelveli and Tuticorin Districts

Abstract

This study evaluated zooplankton diversity and water quality in three
freshwater ecosystems: Pillaiyarkulam Pond (Tirunelveli),
Seydunganallur Canal, and Srivaikundam Well (Tuticorin) during
January–March 2025. Zooplankton communities comprising Rotifers,
Cladocerans, and Copepods were assessed in relation to physicochemical
parameters. Diversity was comparatively higher during summer, associated
with favorable environmental conditions, while variations occurred
across sites due to differences in water quality and human activities.
Pillaiyarkulam Pond supported greater zooplankton abundance, whereas
the canal showed moderate diversity under fluctuating conditions. The
well exhibited lower abundance and relatively stable water quality.
Overall, zooplankton diversity reflected differences in environmental
conditions and provided useful indicators of freshwater ecosystem quality.