Seasonal Variation in the Macrobenthic Invertebrate Densities of Aripal and Watalara Streams of Kashmir Himalaya, India

Abstract

The present study reflects the seasonal variation of macrobenthic invertebrates from Aripal and Watalara streams in Kashmir Himalaya. During the study, a significant difference (p<0.05) was observed in the density of Annelida, Mollusca, and Arthropoda on a seasonal scale. Macrobenthic invertebrates were found to be at their highest density during summer and autumn, whereas they were recorded lowest during winter and spring. The total density during summer and autumn was found to be significantly different (p<0.05) when compared to winter and spring seasons. The data also depicted the maximum density of Arthropoda followed by Mollusca and Annelida. The study reveals the seasonal stability of the stream ecosystem within the temperate region and also provides the baseline information for macrobenthic invertebrate community structure.