Biological resources of the Ganga River, India

Abstract

The Ganga River in northern India is of great importance because its water is used for human and cattle consumption, power generation, fish production and irrigation and for pilgrimage. A total of 40 species of zooplanktons, four crustaceans, 15 molluscs, 51 insects, 83 fishes, 12 freshwater turtles, two crocodiles, 48 aquatic birds and two mammal species have been identified in the upper Ganga River. The river has been under constant threat of pollution by sewage and industrial wastes, disposal of dead bodies, deforestation, excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, bathing, pilgrimage and water development programmes. The pollution of the river has become a matter of concern for all. Any change in aquatic environment will alter the structure and composition of the biotic community. For biological restoration in the Ganga River, the government of India has taken up an Action Plan. Several agencies for example, the Central Ganga Authority, several research establishments, government and non-government organizations have done considerable work under various projects. Local participation in various programmes has contributed much to the biological restoration in the Ganga River. This paper presents species lists and highlights the major issues for resource management in the upper Ganga River.