Ecological studies on Akkulam lake with emphasis on Fisheries
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69980/jaz.v44i1.5454Keywords:
kkulam Lake, Ecology, Fisheries, Water Quality, Eutrophication, Aquatic Biodiversity, Phytoplankton, Zooplankton, Benthic fauna, Macrophytes, Oreochromis mossambicus, Etroplus suratensis etcAbstract
Akkulam Lake, a part of the Veli–Akkulam–Parvathy Puthanar estuarine system in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, plays a vital ecological and socio economic role. The lake supports diverse aquatic flora and fauna, including commercially important fish species that sustain local livelihoods. However, in recent decades, anthropogenic pressures such as urbanization, sewage discharge, sand mining, and reclamation have severely impacted the ecological balance of the lake. This study investigates the ecological characteristics of Akkulam Lake with special emphasis on fisheries, focusing on water quality, biodiversity status, and fishery resources. Field surveys and secondary data were used to assess fish diversity, catch composition, and environmental stressors affecting fish populations. The results reveal a decline in fish abundance and diversity, correlating strongly with deteriorating water quality and habitat degradation. The study highlights the urgent need for conservation-oriented lake management, pollution abatement, and community-based fishery practices to restore the ecological integrity of Akkulam Lake and ensure sustainable fisheries.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Dr.Babitha.G.S, Dr.Leji.J, Dr. Binushma Raju
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