Abstract

This study attempts to provide an overview of the benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages of Yousmarg streams. For studying the distribution of macroinvertebrate assemblages in the two streams, that is, Doodganga and Khanshah manshah canal, a total of 4 study sites were selected. During the period of investigation, 24 species of macrozoobenthos in Yousmarg streams were recorded. Arthropoda was found to be the most dominant group, comprising of 23 species followed by Annelida with 1 species. The phylum Arthropoda was represented by class Insecta (5 orders) and Crustacea (1 orders). The diversity of benthic invertebrates was high in Doodhganga stream (21 taxa) as compared to Khanshah-manshah canal (18 taxa). An inter-site comparison revealed maximum mean population density for Doodhganga stream as compared to Khanshah-manshah canal. Besides, it was observed that boulders and cobbles provided a stable habitat for macroinvertebrates dwelling. Also, greater diversity in the summers as against winters was recorded in both the streams. On the basis of the biotic indices, the Doodhganga stream is being adjudged pristine with no organic pollution, however slight organic pollution in Khanshah–manshah canal was recorded.

Key words: Kashmir Himalayas, benthic macroinvertebrates, Diversity