Distribution of Aquatic Fungi in Relation to Physicochemical Factors of Kosi River in Kumaun Himalaya

Abstract

Abstract: Watermolds- the members of Chytridiomycetes and Oomycetes fungi, and possess ability of colonizing a variety of substances. Kosi river water was assessed with reference to watermolds diversity, pH, water temperature and total organic matter at 3 study sites viz., Kosi, Kwarab and Khairna, from November 2000 to October 2001. During study, a total of 16 fungal species belonging to 7 genera of watermolds were isolated. Maximum number of fungal species was recorded during spring and rainy season, while minimum number of watermolds was observed during winter season. During present study, sterile species of watermolds showed dominance followed by eccentric species. The interaction of physicochemical factors greatly influence to the diversity of watermolds. [Nature