Assessment of Heavy Metals in Water and Sediments of Chikkere, Sira: Impacts on Aquatic Biodiversity

A comprehensive study on heavy metal contamination in the water and sediments of the Chikkere water body was conducted. WAWQI revealed that water quality was poor in April and very poor in August 2021, indicating significant pollution. Samples were analyzed using acid digestion and spectrophotometry. In April 2021, Si, Cu, Mn, and Zn exceeded the acceptable limits set by BIS standards, whereas in August 2021, these metals were within permissible limits. Sediment analysis showed the highest concentration of Fe. Statistically Pb and As correlated with Cu, Mn, and cladocera. Cr, Fe, and Co correlated with Zn (<0.05) and were negatively correlated with rotifers, cladocerans, and copepods. Protozoa correlated with Si, rotifers, and copepods (<0.01). Rotifers showed a positive correlation with cladocerans and copepods (<0.01) but a negative correlation with Zn, Cr, Fe, and Co. These findings underscore the impact of heavy metal contamination on water quality and aquatic biodiversity.