GREENING OF AMALNALA LAKE, GADCHANDUR, CHANDRAPUR DISTRICT (M. S.) - PROBABLE REASONS

Abstract

Amalnala dam is located at the foothills of Manikgarh hillock in Gadchandur town of Chandrapur district in Maharashtra state. The medium-scale irrigation dam is a main source of water for surrounding villages and local industries. It is also a well-known tourist spot. From last couple of years, water of the dam is turning dark green, especially, in the month of August resulting in the increased viscosity and stinking of water. This increased our curiosity to test the water sample for any biological origins. Preliminary microscopic examination showed the presence of Microcystis, a neurotoxic cyanobacteria which is green in colour and probably imparts green colour to water. The excessive growth of single cell cyanobacteria or the algal bloom can be due to rise in nitrates and phosphate levels in water. Thus, it becomes necessary to study the source of nitrates and phosphates and its possible bioremediation with the help of microbes and effect of neurotoxin produced by cyanobacteria on animal and human health. This review discusses various factors such as turbidity, light, temperature, pesticides, fertilizers etc. for the greening of the Amalnala dam.