Abstract:
The present investigation into the protozoan population and distribution
in a wetland ecosystem revealed thatthe wetland soil facilitates a large
number of species to live. Most probably due to the continuous moisture
condition which enhance the appearance of additional species.
29 species of protozoa have been reported during this study
period. Of them 8 species were amoebae, 14 species were ciliates
and 7 species were flagellates. Of the amoebae Arcella
sp. was the most widespread, being found in all 3 soil environments. Of the
flagellates, Astasia sp. was the predominant type. Colpoda sp. was the
commonest ciliate found during the whole study period. Not all
the 29 species of protozoa occurred at the same time and in all the 3 selected
study areas.
Of the measured abiotic factors, temperature and soil moisture exerted
general effects but pH and other chemical parameters showed no direct
correlation. Also high content of organic matter in wetland soil influenced
the growth of testaceans. Seasonal and spatial variations of protozoa
both in number and types were seen.
