Zooplankton are the animal component of the plankton community. They are heterotrophic, meaning they can't make their own food and must eat other organisms. In particular, they eat phytoplankton, which are generally smaller than zooplankton.11 species of zooplankton were found in the Shivna River. The most abundant species were copepods Oithona similis, Paracalanus sp., and Calanus sinicus.The species composition of zooplankton varies by season. The highest number of species were found in winter, followed by autumn, summer, and spring. The highest abundance of zooplankton was found in summer, and the lowest in post-monsoon.

1. Assessment of seasonal variations in zooplankton community structure with
reference to water quality in Shivna River at Mandsaur, India.
Dr.Reddy.P.B
reddysirr@gmail.com

2. Graphical abstract of proposed work

3. Background:
The context of the work involves the assessment of seasonal variations in the zooplankton community structure in the Shivna River at
Mandsaur, India, with a specific focus on its relationship with water quality. Several key elements define the context of this research:
1.Geographical Focus:
•The study is centered around the Shivna River, which flows through Mandsaur, India.
•Mandsaur's geographical location and the unique characteristics of the Shivna River contribute to its ecological significance.
2.Zooplankton Community Structure:
•The primary focus of the research is on zooplankton, which constitutes a vital component of aquatic ecosystems.
•The study aims to understand the composition, abundance, and diversity of zooplankton species present in the Shivna River.
3.Seasonal Variations:
•The research explicitly investigates seasonal variations in the zooplankton community structure.
•Different seasons may influence the abundance and distribution of zooplankton, reflecting the dynamic nature of aquatic
ecosystems.
4.Water Quality Parameters:
•The assessment is closely linked to water quality, and researchers are likely to analyze various water quality parameters.
•Parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient levels, and pollutants may be considered to understand their
correlation with zooplankton dynamics.
5.Environmental Monitoring:
•The study involves ongoing environmental monitoring to capture variations over time.
•Regular data collection allows researchers to track changes in the zooplankton community and water quality parameters
throughout different seasons.
6.Ecological Implications:
•The research aims to elucidate the ecological implications of seasonal variations in the zooplankton community.
•Understanding how changes in zooplankton relate to environmental factors provides insights into the overall health and
resilience of the Shivna River ecosystem.
7.Local Relevance:
•The study is of local relevance to Mandsaur, addressing concerns related to the health of the Shivna River.
•Findings may have implications for local water resource management, conservation efforts, and environmental policies.

4. 1.Identification of Seasonal Patterns:
•Determine distinct seasonal variations in zooplankton abundance and diversity in the Shivna River.
•Analyze how environmental factors and water quality changes influence the zooplankton community.
2.Correlation with Water Quality:
•Establish correlations between water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen) and
zooplankton dynamics.
•Understand the key factors influencing the health and distribution of zooplankton across different seasons.
3.Impact on Ecosystem Health:
•Assess the overall impact of zooplankton variations on the health and functioning of the Shivna River ecosystem.
•Identify potential ecological shifts in response to changes in zooplankton populations.
4.Ecological Indicators:
•Identify specific zooplankton species as indicators of water quality.
•Provide insights for using zooplankton as ecological indicators in water quality assessments.
5.Contribution to Conservation:
•Inform conservation and management strategies for the Shivna River based on research findings.
•Provide actionable insights for authorities and stakeholders to enhance water quality and ecosystem health.
6.Local Environmental Recommendations:
•Generate specific recommendations for local environmental management practices.
•Offer practical guidance for improving water quality and sustainability in the Shivna River.
7. Identification of Research Gaps:
•Identify gaps in knowledge and suggest areas for future research.
•Inspire further studies to deepen the understanding of seasonal ecological dynamics in river ecosystems.
EXPECTED OUTCOME