Distribution of Polyarthra vulgaris Carlin (Rotifera: Monogonota) in a warm monomictic lake of Kashmir India

Abstract

The paper describes seasonal changes in the abundance of Polyarthra vulgaris Carlin (Rotifera: Monogonota) in a warm monomictic water body of Kashmir — Lake Manasbal. The lake is alkaline, generally with low nutrient content.

P. vulgaris is a perennial rotifer in the lake and shows higher population density in the open _water area. It prefers a temperature range of 9-18°C and avoids warmer waters with pH>8.5. Besides the abiotic factors, its population appears to be influenced by the abundance of other zooplankters, especially that of Diaphanasoma brachyuruni Lieven (Cladocera).