Microscopic Crustaceans Diversity in Eutrophic Ratholai Pond at Pipar City, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (India)

Jodhpur District is part of the great Indian Thar Desert. Many lakes, dams, ponds, wells and step wells are found in this region. The selected Ratholai Pond is situated in the Pipar City town of Jodhpur district and assessed the Zooplanktonic crustacean diversity during the period from July 2018 to June 2019. Zooplanktonic crustacean was examined quantitatively with standard identification methods. Zooplankton occupies a significant position structure of the Pond Ecosystem and plays a key role in the energy transfer. Using a microscopic taxonomical Study revealed that 17 species of Zooplanktonic crustaceans were identified into three major groups comprises of Cladocera, Copepoda, and Ostracoda. Zooplankton composition is highest in the summer months and lowest in the monsoon months. We also find out the effect of water quality on aquatic life. The study recommended avoiding as far as possible the discharge of untreated sewage and other pollutants into the water.