Environmental drivers of zooplankton diversity and composition of Pargwal Wetland, Jammu & Kashmir, India

This study investigates temporal and spatial variability in zooplankton abundance within Pargwal wetland, the largest wetland in the Jammu region. Water samples were collected from three strategically selected stations and analyzed for physico-chemical parameters including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, carbonates, nutrients, and ions. A total of 27 zooplankton species spanning five groups were recorded. Rotifera dominated in terms of abundance and diversity with 15 species, followed by Cladocera with five species, Protozoa with three, and two species each of Ostracoda and Copepoda. Key environmental factors contributing to the dominance of rotifers and cladocerans were high levels of nutrients (nitrates and phosphates), water transparency, and light penetration (due to shallow water depth), and resilience to pollution-induced stress. Rotifers are also known to outcompete other groups when resources are limited or of poor quality. The abundance of pollution-tolerant species indicated overall degradation of this important wetland driven by anthropogenic pressures. This highlights the need for integrated management strategies to safeguard biodiversity for future generations.