- The algal diversity of the unpolluted water bodies at Simili in the Nayagarh district, characterized by a rich biodiversity, particularly in algae. With an annual average rainfall of 1250–1390 mm and moderate temperatures ranging from 19°C to 23°C, the region presents a conducive environment for algal growth, particularly among major groups such as Cyanophyta, Chlorophyta, and Rhodophyta. Algal samples were collected from lotic water habitats, specifically waterfalls, between November 2024 and February 2025, using random sampling methods. A total of four algal species were identified, comprising two from Cyanophyceae and two from Bacillariophyceae, which predominantly existed in planktonic or epilithic forms. Notable species identified included Calothrix marchica, Oscillatoria jenensis, Cymbopleura inaequalis, and Pinnularia viridis, each demonstrating unique characteristics indicative of the oligotrophic conditions of Simili’s waterways. These findings emphasize the low algal diversity yet highlight the ecological significance of the region’s clean aquatic habitats, reinforcing the importance of maintaining low pollution levels for biodiversity preservation. This research contributes to the understanding of the ecological health of the Nayagarh District, accentuating the relationship between environmental conditions and algal diversity.
Chinmayee Sahoo (Thu,) studied this question.