ECOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS OF FRESHWATER SNAILS IN THE VICINITY OF AN ARTIFICIAL LAKE

Abstract

This investigation delves into the ecological dimensions of freshwater snails in the vicinity of an artificially created lake. The aim of this research was to comprehend the distribution, prevalence, and variety of freshwater snail species within the ecosystem surrounding the manmade lake. The study spanned from August to November 2023, conducted at three distinct sample stations (I, II, and III), with bi-weekly sample collections. Standard keys were employed for the identification of snails, and the Shanon-Weiner and Simpson's similarity indices were used to explore the diversity of snail species. Throughout the study, a total of 311 individuals representing three distinct species encountered in this study were documented. Acathina fulica exhibited the highest abundance (129 individuals), while Pomacea bridgesii displayed the lowest abundance (66 individuals). The month of August registered the highest population (122 individuals), contrasting with the lowest count in November (37 individuals). Abundance varied across stations, with Station II recording the lowest (77 individuals) and Station III the highest (116 individuals). Regarding diversity, Pomacea bridgesii emerged as the most diverse species (0.3670 & 0.3662), while Littorina littorea exhibited the least diversity (0.0000) across the stations. This investigation contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of freshwater snail populations in the periphery of artificial lakes, shedding light on their distribution patterns and ecological interactions.