• P. Dheivanai
• S. Kannan
• M. Mathar Fathima
• M.Sudhanthira Lingammal
• Dr Sivaprakash J S

Waterbodies on Earth establish a principal source of life and harbor rich environmental biodiversity. This study examines the consequence of altitude on water quality parameters and microbial populations in waterbodies across Southern Tamil Nadu, India exactly Thenkarai Pond, Manjalar Dam, and Shanmuganathi Reservoir, located at altitudes ranging from 136 to 419 meters above sea level (MSL). Soil samples were collected pre-monsoon and analyzed for microbial diversity through serial dilution and spread plate methods using nutrient agar. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 48 hours, and colony-forming units (cfu/ml) were counted. Bacterial identification was based on morphological and biochemical characteristics. Among 165 bacterial colonies isolated, 13 bacterial species were identified, with E. coli being the most abundant (14.55%), followed by Enterobacter sp. (12.73%) and Bacillus sp. (9.70%). The highest microbial count was recorded in Thenkarai Pond (65 colonies), followed by Manjalar Dam (54 colonies), and Shanmuganathi Reservoir (46 colonies). Shanmuganathi Reservoir, situated at the highest altitude, revealed lower microbial diversity, likely due to agricultural activities and sedimentation. This research highlights the ecological impact of altitude on waterbodies, emphasizing the necessity for environmental management to prevent untreated waste discharge into water systems.

Altitude, microbial populations, waterbodies, Southern Tamil Nadu, bacterial colonies, Manjalar dam, Thenkarai pond, Shanmuganathi reservoir

"Influence of Altitude on Microbial Diversity and Water Quality in Selected Waterbodies of Southern Tamil Nadu, India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 9, page no.e188-e196, September-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2409424.pdf

"Influence of Altitude on Microbial Diversity and Water Quality in Selected Waterbodies of Southern Tamil Nadu, India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 9, page no. ppe188-e196, September-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2409424.pdf