Algal Biodiversity and Water Quality Modelling in Rushula Cheruvu Using Multivariate Analysis

Abstract: This paper investigates the dynamics of algal biodiversity and water quality of Rushula Cheruvu, which is a historically important, rain-fed freshwater Rushula Cheruvu (a traditional freshwater water body) of Kakatiya origin and is found in the Nagarkurnool District of Telangana, India. Five representative stations were sampled monthly and a single annual cycle was followed (December 2024-November 2025) to assess the phytoplankton composition and significant physico-chemical parameters. Eighty-seven algal species (Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Euglenophyceae, and Dinophyceae) were identified. The seasonal changes displayed more diversity in winter and post monsoon seasons than in summer and monsoon seasons, whereby there were increased prevalence of cyanobacteria. The multivariate statistical tests, including Principle Component Analysis, Cluster Analysis and Multiple Linear Regression, included the nutrient availability, temperature, and light penetration as the key factors in the control of the algal community structure, where phosphorus played a significant role in the determination of algal abundance. The Rushula Cheruvu (a traditional freshwater water body) was determined as meso-eutrophic with seasonal trends towards the eutrophic conditions in the seasons of environmental stress. The Rushula Cheruvu, especially, is not given water except through rainfall and runoff of forest catchment water, and no farming or fertilizers are used, it is a vital source of drinking water to tribal populations and wildlife. The results show the ecological importance of this almost pristine freshwater system and the necessity to maintain its natural water quality and biodiversity by strict conservation and long-term monitoring.

Keywords: Algal Biodiversity, Water Quality, Multivariate Analysis, Eutrophication, Phytoplankton Dynamics