An Image Based Zooplankton Identification Key

Aim: This study investigates spatial variation in zooplankton species composition across four man-made reservoirs. Study Design: Reservoirs were sampled once monthly for two years. Sampling was done using plankton nets to sieve the reservoir water. Place and Duration of Study: Sampling for zooplankton species was carried out in four reservoirs in Jos North Local Government Area, Jos, Plateau State. Sampling was done from April 2022 to March 2024 Methodology: Zooplankton samples were examined under a light microscope, and images were captured using a digital microscope camera at the Applied Hydrobiology Laboratory, University of Jos. Results: Sixty-two photomicrographs of some common zooplankton in these Jos Plateau reservoirs revealed four groups of zooplankton, namely: Protozoa (7 species), Rotifers (29 species), Cladocerans (15 species) and Copepods (11 species), with rotifers being the most diverse. Conclusion: Rotifers were the most diverse group, indicating their ecological importance in these reservoirs. The photomicrographs generated provide valuable resources for teaching and future research.