SPECIES DIVERSITY OF CYANOBACTERIA IN CHAMBAL RIVER

Blue green algae are also popularly known as Cyanobacteria with the prokaryotic structure and dominance of phycocyanin pigment that is responsible for bluish colour in them. They occupy a variety of habitats with a diverse range of organization. They are closely related to prokaryotic bacteria in evolution. Cyanobacteria are the only prokaryotes which have the ability to perform photosynthesis by evolving oxygen. Phytoplanktons are microscopic free floating plants which form the base of a food chain in aquatic ecosystem. These reproduce rapidly and are easily available. The aquatic ecosystems are dependent on these primary producers and are affected by the environmental conditions. To assess the changes in aquatic environment, they can be used for bioassessment of aquatic ecosystem. 8 genera of cyanobacteria were observed during the study period. Oscillatoria was found of more common occurrence in Chambal River.