Cultural Eutrophication of Lonar Lake, Maharashtra, India

Lonar is one of the youngest Lake and is unique in the world for its alkalinity and salinity of the water. But its alkalinity, pH and salinity go on decrease day by day. An attempt has been made to examine environmental analysis of Lonar Lake. Objective: This papers aims at improving the water quality in the lakes from hyper-eutrophic to minor eutrophic conditions. Methods: The physical and chemical parameters were analyzed as per APHA. Results: It is found that major Spirulina species of algae was found in lake water. This species Spirulina having medicinal value for human body. This species occupied the Lonar lake water phytoplankton about 90.0% and above. Rests of 10 % are other members of Chlorophyceae, Cynophyceae and Bacillariophyceae also found in this lake. Lonar lake water was found to be very rich in mineral nutrient contents. No fish species was recorded in the same water body. Conclusions: Hence this World heritage lake should be preserved for its alkalinity and salinity. Use of agrochemicals on crater floor; nuisance of tourists; sewage disposal in the lake; constructions on the crater rim; etc. are some of the problems requiring attention. The lake urgently needs to take immediate protection from pollution and save and preserve for future generations.