International Journal of Biology Research

Authors
Phebian Odufuwa, Mathias O Ajaba

Abstract
This study was carried out on water quality and algal distribution of selected ponds in Jalingo. Algal and water samples were collected, preserved and analysed over a six-week period using standard methods. A total of five taxonomic groups were identified; Chlorophyta, Bacillariophyta, Cyanophyta, Euglenophyta, and Chrysophyta. The division Chlorophyta has the highest percentage composition in all the ponds. Physicochemical properties studied include water temperature, pH, transparency, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen and biological oxygen demand. Temperature was fairly constant ranging from 15.4°C to 27.80°C in the ponds throughout the study period. pH which ranged from 6.24 to 9.15 in all ponds was optimum for algal growth and development. Transparency revealed a significant difference throughout the study period and it ranged from 27.00cm to 10.10cm. Electrical conductivity recorded the highest value (543µS/cm) in week six of Pond A. Pond C recorded the highest value of dissolved oxygen (10.50mg/l) and also recorded the highest value for biological oxygen demand (7.00mg/l). It is material to note that the diversity of algae in these systems is greatly influenced by the physical and chemical parameters operating within the ponds. Thus, forming a useful tool for further ecological assessment and monitoring of freshwater habitats in Sub-Sahara Africa.