Nematode diversity and its role in assessing conditions in aquatic ecosystem: Shekha Lake, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nematodes were investigated from the sediment samples, collected from the Shekha Lake, a natural lake in Shekha bird sanctuary. The relationship between nematode community, ecological parameters and heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Pb and Zn) were investigated. In order to understand better about ecological conditions, various ecological parameters and indices (Shanon diversity index, Maturity index &trophic diversity index) were calculated. Sensitivity of particular nematode group against heavy metals was also analysed. A negative correlation between Zn and population of cephalobids was found, indicating that these nematodes may be sensitive to this heavy metal. Further, it was also found that Mesodorylaimus was an indicator of Zn pollution.