Integrated zooplankton and heavy metal analysis as indicators of pollution threats in freshwater ecosystems of West Bengal.

ABSTRACT: Freshwater bodies are a vital resource for humans, yet they are threatened by numerous factors, many of which remain unidentified. In this study, we assessed the concentrations of seven heavy metals (HMs) in forty-eight water samples and analyzed their correlation with zooplankton populations and human health risks at four sub-divisional sites in West Bengal, India. Sampling was conducted throughout the year. We used indices based on HMs and zooplankton to evaluate human health risks. The results revealed that the total taxonomic richness of zooplankton (Rotifera, Copepoda, and Branchiopods) was 72 species, with Rotifera richness 25, Copepoda 37, and Branchiopods 10 species. These results demonstrated a negative correlation between zooplankton abundance and HMs concentration, highlighting

SUBMITTER: Islam SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12485149 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature