Abstract
An ecological assessment of Kaliasote Dam was conducted to evaluate the diversity of macroinvertebrates and their role in determining the trophic status and water quality. A total of 56 species were recorded, with Arthropoda being the dominant group (32 species), followed by Mollusca (17) and Annelida (7). Seasonal variations showed higher species richness in summer compared to monsoon. Chemical parameters confirmed that Kaliasote Dam falls under the eutrophic category. However, the abundance of tolerant species like Chironomus sp. and Culex sp. indicates moderate to severe pollution in parts of the dam. Biodiversity indices (Simpson & Shannon-Weaver) confirmed moderate diversity, while biotic indices (BMWP & ASPT) highlighted varying water quality from clean to heavily polluted across sampling stations. The study concludes that Kaliasote Dam is moderately polluted with clear eutrophic tendencies, emphasizing the urgent need for ecological monitoring and pollution control strategies.
