The Biobrio 13(1 & 2), 2026

Seasonal variation in physico-chemical characteristics and water quality assessment of selected freshwater ponds of Samastipur, Bihar

Rahul Kumar

ABSTRACT:

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the seasonal variation in physicochemical characteristics and water quality status of two freshwater ponds located in and around Samastipur district of Bihar, India. Monthly water samples were collected from July 2021 to June 2023 from Pusa Pond and Khairi Pond. Important limnological parameters such as water temperature, transparency, pH, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, alkalinity, hardness, chloride, sulphate, phosphate, nitrate, BOD, and COD were analysed following standard methods. The study revealed marked seasonal fluctuations in water quality parameters between the two ponds. Pusa Pond exhibited comparatively better water quality with higher dissolved oxygen and transparency, while Khairi Pond showed elevated nutrient concentration, BOD, and COD due to anthropogenic activities and domestic waste discharge. Monsoon season caused dilution of several parameters whereas summer season showed increased concentration of nutrients and alkalinity. The study indicates that increasing anthropogenic pressure is deteriorating pond ecosystems and continuous monitoring is necessary for conservation and sustainable management of freshwater resources.

Keywords:    

Limnology, Physico-chemical parameters, Pond ecosystem, Water quality, Samastipur, Bihar

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