Abstract

The floristic and macro faunal diversity in Nallavadu lagoon (Puducherry, India) with an aerial length of 3.44 km was sampled monthly from June, 2009 to June, 2010. The lagoon salinity was 7.6 during post-monsoon period and 8.7 in pre-monsoon. Sequence of increased and decreased patterns in species diversity was noted during post-monsoon and pre-monsoon periods. Final results revealed, a total of 21 flora species (17 families) comprising of mangrove associates and in fauna, a total of 56 species (36 families) including 12 species of fishes, 9 species of gastropods, 6 species of bivalves, 9 species of crabs, 5 species of prawns, 3 species of snakes and 12 species of birds were recorded. This study was an attempt to provide a more complete inventory of the flora and fauna diversity of this coastal lagoon along the Puducherry coast.

Key words: Coastal lagoon, fauna, molluscs, crustaceans, fishes, water snakes, conservation.