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An insight into the ecology of Manasbal Lake of Kashmir valley: A Review

Tabasum Yousuf , Shaista Javaid , Sinan Nissar , Zahoor Ahmad Mir and Yahya Bakhtiyar *

1 Fish Biology and Limnology Research Laboratory Department of Zoology,, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir India

Corresponding author Email: yahya.bakhtiyar@gmail.com

Manasbal Lake is the deepest freshwater lake in India and has suffered environmental degradation due to various human activities, such as agriculture, urban expansion, tourism, stone quarrying etc. The lake is in dire need of comprehensive restoration measures to restore its ecological balance, which is quite crucial for the region's economy and culture. Preserving this natural treasure safeguards biodiversity, supports local livelihoods and ensures that future generations can enjoy its unique beauty, making it a vital investment for the region's well-being and prosperity. The present study aims to consolidate data concerning the diverse biotic and abiotic elements of Manasbal Lake within the context of its management and preservation. It provides crucial insights into the hydrological and watershed features of Manasbal Lake, while also offering a comprehensive historical overview. Moreover, the document elaborates on the water quality indicators and key biotic components to delineate the ecological dynamics within the lake. Additionally, it outlines various environmental issues confronting the lake and proposes remedial actions to protect its ecosystem. Manasbal Lake is facing substantial ecological challenges due to human settlements, agricultural runoff, tourism, and stone quarrying. The influx of nutrients from household waste, sewage, and agricultural activities has led to significant eutrophication. Tourism has exacerbated this problem, with motorboat use and oil spills further polluting the lake. Stone quarrying has added excessive calcium, causing sedimentation and nutrient buildup, adversely affecting aquatic life and local vegetation. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive management strategies to regulate human activities, improve waste management, and restore the lake's ecological balance.This research could facilitate the endeavors of scholars interested in investigating the ecology of Manasbal Lake by offering a framework of the essential ecological facets linked to this water body.

Biotic Parameters; Fishes; Kashmir Himalaya; Restoration; Tourism; Water Quality

Copy the following to cite this article:

Yousuf T, Javaid S, Nissar S, Mir Z. A, Bakhtiyar Y. An insight into the ecology of Manasbal Lake of Kashmir valley: A Review. Curr World Environ 2024;19(2).

Copy the following to cite this URL:

Yousuf T, Javaid S, Nissar S, Mir Z. A, Bakhtiyar Y. An insight into the ecology of Manasbal Lake of Kashmir valley: A Review. Curr World Environ 2024;19(2).

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