Water quality parameters and bacterial loads of a migratory bird-inhabiting lake in Jahangirnagar University campus

Abstract

This study assessed selected physico-chemical parameters and bacterial loads in a migratory bird-inhabited lake at the Jahangirnagar University (JU) campus from July to December 2025. Water samples were collected monthly from three depth strata—surface, middle, and bottom, along with bottom mud samples from three locations of the lake. Temperature, pH, and DO were significantly higher in surface water than in the middle and bottom layers (p < 0.05), whereas EC, TDS, and total hardness tended to be higher in bottom water across the study period. Bacterial abundance varied significantly among water depths and sampling months, with bottom water showing significantly higher bacterial loads than surface and middle waters, indicating that lake sediments function as a major microbial reservoir. The findings demonstrate clear vertical and temporal variations in water quality and bacterial abundance within the studied lake. Regular monitoring of physicochemical and microbial conditions is therefore essential for maintaining good ecological health of the migratory bird habitat. Further the need for sustainable lake management strategies is evident to minimize microbial pollution and protect the ecological integrity of the lake ecosystem. Bangladesh J. Zool. 54(2): 183-196, 2026