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Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Plankton Compositions of The Twin Lakes, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

Ikeogu, C.F, Akinrotimi O. A, and Ezeh, I. R, .

Abstract

This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics and plankton dynamics of the Twin Lakes at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. The study was carried out for a period of three months (June–August, 2024) to assess spatial and temporal variations in water quality and biological productivity of the lakes. Standard laboratory procedures were utilized in evaluation of physicochemical characteristics and plankton compositions of the lakes. The results obtained indicated that physicochemical parameters of water revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the lakes, particularly in dissolved oxygen, nitrite, and ammonia concentrations. Dissolved oxygen consistently remained higher in Lake 1, while Lake 2 recorded elevated levels of nitrite and ammonia, indicating relatively higher nutrient enrichment. Temperature and pH showed no significant variation (p>0.05) and remained within slightly acidic to near-neutral ranges throughout the study. Phytoplankton compositions comprised of five major groups: Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, Cyanophyta, Dinophyta, and Euglenoidea. Chlorophyta and Euglenoidea dominated in all the sampling months, with Scenedesmus sp, Pediastrum sp, and Euglena spp being the most abundant taxa. A decline in phytoplankton abundance was observed from June to August, although Cyanophyta exhibited increased dominance in August, particularly Oscillatoria sp, suggesting eutrophic conditions, especially in Lake 2. Zooplankton assemblages were dominated by Rotifera and Protozoa, with Arthropoda contributing moderately and Cladocera being least represented. Peak abundance occurred in June, followed by a decline in July and partial recovery in August. Dominant species included Nauplus sp, Filinia sp, Lecane sp, Trichocerca sp, and Paramecium sp. Zooplankton abundance and diversity were consistently higher in Lake 2. Overall, the results indicated clear spatial and seasonal variations in water quality and plankton structure, with Lake 2 showing characteristics of higher productivity and nutrient loading. These findings highlighted the ecological status of the lakes and provide baseline data for monitoring and sustainable management of freshwater ecosystems. P-ISSN 2695-222X

Keywords

Phytoplankton; Zooplankton; Seasonal variation; Freshwater ecology; Aquatic productivity

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