The Role of Water Quality in Shaping Avian Biodiversity: A Case Study of the Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster) in Sur Sarovar

The Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, also known as Keetham Lake, is a critical habitat for a wide array of avian species, among which the Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster) holds significant ecological importance. This study seeks to understand how water quality impacts avian biodiversity within this sanctuary, using the Oriental Darter as a focal species. Water quality, a pivotal factor in sustaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, affects the availability of food resources, breeding grounds, and overall habitat conditions. Essential parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and pollutant concentrations play a vital role in determining water quality, which subsequently influences bird populations’ health and diversity.

The Oriental Darter, distinguished by its fish-eating behaviour and sensitivity to environmental changes, serves as an excellent indicator species for this study. By evaluating water quality and examining its effects on the Oriental Darter, this research aims to draw broader conclusions about the sanctuary’s avian biodiversity [1]. The study will investigate seasonal variations in water quality and their correlation with the presence, breeding success, and population dynamics of the Oriental Darter. These insights are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies to ensure the sustainability of both the species and their habitats [2].

In the research highlights the interdependence between water quality and avian biodiversity, with a particular focus on the Oriental Darter. The findings will contribute to ongoing conservation efforts, emphasizing the need for sustainable water management practices to preserve the ecological balance of Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary.

In the various water quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and pollutant levels to determine their impact on avian biodiversity. The research will analyse the diversity and health of bird populations within the sanctuary, focusing on the Oriental Darter. The Oriental Darter will be monitored as an indicator species to understand how water quality affects its presence, breeding success, and population trends. The insights gained from the study will aid in creating effective conservation strategies to protect both the Oriental Darter and the overall avian biodiversity in the sanctuary [3].

Water quality explanation

Water quality refers to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water, typically in relation to its suitability for a particular purpose such as drinking, swimming, or supporting aquatic life. Key parameters that determine water quality include pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, temperature, and concentrations of pollutants like heavy metals and nitrates. These factors can significantly influence the health and biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems. Poor water quality can lead to detrimental effects on wildlife, including decreased biodiversity, impaired reproductive success, and the presence of harmful algal blooms [4].

Salutation

Thank you for considering this study. We look forward to your feedback and collaboration (Table 1 & 2).

Table 1:Key water quality parameters and their effects on aquatic ecosystems.

Table 2:Seasonal variations in water quality at sur sarovar bird sanctuary.

Avian biodiversity

Avian biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of bird species within a particular region, ecosystem, or the world. It encompasses the range of bird species, their genetic differences, the ecosystems they inhabit, and the ecological roles they perform. High avian biodiversity is an indicator of a healthy environment, as birds play crucial roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, seed dispersal, pest control, and contributing to nutrient cycles. Factors influencing avian biodiversity include habitat quality, availability of food resources, climatic conditions, and the presence of predators or human disturbances [5]; (Table 3 & 4; Figure 1).

Table 3:Key factors influencing avian biodiversity.

Table 4:Avian species observed in sur sarovar bird sanctuary.

Figure 1:Anhinga Melanogaster, Pavo Cristatus, Nycticorax, Fulica Atra, Mycteria Leucocephala

Oriental darter explanation

The Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), also known as the Indian Darter or Snakebird, is a unique waterbird distinguished by its slender, elongated neck that resembles a snake when it swims. This bird is commonly found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshes across South and Southeast Asia. The Oriental Darter is known for its expert diving skills, using its sharp, pointed bill to catch fish underwater. When it swims, only its neck and head are visible above water, giving it the appearance of a snake. After diving, it often perches with its wings spread to dry, as its feathers are less waterproof than those of other waterbirds [6,7]; (Table 5 & 6).

Table 5:Key characteristics of the oriental darter.

Table 6:Seasonal behaviour and breeding patterns of the oriental darter.

Habitat preferences

In the context of Sur Sarovar, also known as Keetham Lake, the Oriental Darter exhibits specific habitat preferences influenced by water quality and other environmental factors. Key habitat preferences include:
a) Water clarity: Clear, unpolluted water is crucial for the darter’s foraging success. High turbidity levels can negatively impact their ability to hunt for fish [8].
b) Vegetation: Dense, aquatic vegetation provides essential cover and nesting sites. It also supports a healthy fish population, which is the primary food source for darters.
c) Water depth: Shallow to moderately deep waters are preferred as they allow for efficient hunting and diving.
d) Availability of perches: Dead trees and logs in the water are important for drying wings, resting, and nesting [9,10].

Conservation status

The conservation status of the Oriental Darter in Sur Sarovar is influenced by several factors:
a) Habitat degradation: Conversion of wetlands for agriculture and urban development.
b) Water pollution: Discharge of untreated sewage, industrial effluents, and agricultural runoff into the lake [11].
c) Human disturbance: Fishing activities, boating, and tourism can disturb nesting sites and foraging areas.
d) Invasive species: Non-native plant species can alter the habitat structure, affecting the availability of food and nesting sites [12].

The maintaining high water quality in Sur Sarovar is critical for supporting the Oriental Darter population. Efforts should focus on reducing pollution, managing invasive species, and minimizing human disturbance to preserve the habitat and ensure the continued presence of this near-threatened species.

Summary of study results

The study analysed various water quality parameters and their impact on the avian biodiversity, particularly focusing on the Oriental Darter. Key findings include:

Water quality parameters

a) pH Level: Optimal range found to be 6.5-8.5 for supporting diverse aquatic life.
b) Dissolved Oxygen (DO): Levels above 5 mg/L were associated with higher darter populations.
c) Nutrient levels: Excessive nitrates and phosphates from agricultural runoff were linked to algal blooms, reducing water quality.

Biodiversity correlation

a) Positive correlation: Higher water quality (clarity, DO, appropriate pH) was positively correlated with increased numbers of Oriental Darters.
b) Negative correlation: High pollution levels (heavy metals, nitrates, phosphates) were negatively correlated with darter presence [13,14]; (Table 7).

Table 7:Water quality parameters and oriental darter presence in sur sarovar.

The study on the Oriental Darter in Sur Sarovar highlights the crucial role of water quality in sustaining avian biodiversity. Optimal pH levels, high dissolved oxygen, low nutrient concentrations, and clear water are key factors positively correlating with the presence of the Oriental Darter. Dense native vegetation and minimal human disturbance further enhance habitat suitability. Conversely, pollution, excessive nutrients, and invasive species negatively impact darter populations. Conservation efforts should prioritize reducing pollution, protecting native vegetation, controlling invasive species, and regulating human activities. By maintaining high water quality and minimizing disturbances, Sur Sarovar can support a thriving Oriental Darter population and overall avian biodiversity, ensuring ecological balance and sustainability in the region.

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