The Effect of River-water Quality on Behaviour of Hippopotamus (iHippopotamus amphibious/i) in Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon

This research examines the effect of river-water quality on the behavior of Hippopotamus amphibius in Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon. As key ecological players, hippos significantly influence their aquatic environments, making it essential to understand how water quality impacts their behavior. Over a period of four months direct observations were made three times per day, and four days each month to record the physical color of river water, serving as an aquatic habitat for hippopotamus. This method was used to estimate the level of pollution. Simultaneously, observations were carried out on the behavior of hippopotamus, focusing on activities in the river, adjacent vegetation, and environmental conditions. Simultaneously, observations were carried out on the behavior of hippopotamus, focusing on activities in the river, adjacent vegetation, and environmental conditions. The results reveal a notable correlation between water quality and hippo behavior. In contrast, optimal water conditions facilitated increased social interactions and foraging efficiency. These findings highlight the critical role of river-water quality in shaping hippo behavior and emphasize the need for effective water management practices to support the health of this species and its habitat. This study contributes to the understanding of how environmental factors influence wildlife behavior, providing insights for conservation strategies in Mbam et Djerem National Park and similar ecosystems. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term implications of water quality fluctuations on hippo populations. The results of this study recorded a significant association between river-water quality and day-period X2 = 19.243 df=4 P=0.001. More so, 70% turbid and 12% deep brown water colors were recorded respectively. Different vegetation associated significantly with the river-water quality of the aquatic environment of hippopotamus X2 = 10.688 df=4 P=0.040. Additionally, the physical river-water quality recorded a significant link with the behavior of hippopotamus X2 = 8.912 df=4 P0.05. In contrast, optimal water conditions facilitated increased social interactions and foraging efficiency. These findings highlight the critical role of river-water quality in shaping hippo behavior and emphasize the need for effective water management practices to support the health of this species and its habitat. This study contributes to the understanding of how environmental factors influence wildlife behavior, providing insights for conservation strategies in Mbam et Djerem National Park and similar ecosystems. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term implications of water quality fluctuations on hippo populations.