POLLUTION STRESS ASSESSMENT OF OXBOW LAKE IN KERALA

An oxbow lake is a U-shaped body of water that forms when a wide meander from the main stem of a river is cut off, creating a free- standing body of water. Oxbow lakes are Shallow open waters. They are small bodies of standing or gently flowing water that represent a transitional stage between lakes and marshes. "Kanichan thura" at Vynthala is considered to be the only one naturally formed "Ox-bow" lake in Kerala. Now the pollution load of this lake is high due to anthropogenic activities. Physical and chemical properties of water are the most important factors responsible in shaping the biotic communities. A shift in the desired level of physio chemical properties affect the productivity chain adversely and as a result the entire aquatic productivity equilibrium is disturbed. The present study identify the water and sediment pollution level by analysisng the different water and sediment quality parameters. The different water parameters analysed are pH, TDS, conductivity, alkalinity, acidity, BOD, COD etc. During the present study realized that the oxbow lake at Kanichamthura is a precious natural resource. It holds The ox-bow lakes are very potent biologically and thus are capable to generate better economic environment, provided certain management practices are employed. At the present, as the lakes are poorly managed. The lake is under threat. It needs urgent care and protection as it is a part of our natural heritage and should remain as specimen for the generations to come.