Studies on Plankton Diversity of Different Pond Ecosystems of Bathinda, Punjab, India

A twenty ponds of Bathinda district of Punjab were investigated from Nov 2024-July 2025 to gather preliminary information on the diversity of plankton community. A total of 29 plankton species were recorded during the study of which 20 were phytoplankton and 9 belonged to zooplankton. Phytoplankton community was composed with 55% Chlorophyceae, 6% Bacillariophyceae and 3% Cyanophyceae. Zooplankton community dominance was shown by Insecta (55.5%) followed by Rotifer (22.22%) and Crustacean (22.22%). The present study highlights significance of plankton in ponds of Bathinda. The study demonstrates that ponds ecosystems of Bathinda harbour different plankton which is vital for ecosystem health. Understanding the dynamics of these plankton communities is essential for managing pond ecosystems effectively.