Zooplankton Community Structure in Akassa Creek, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Zooplankton are key indicators of aquatic ecosystem health and productivity. This study investigated the taxonomic composition, abundance, and spatial-temporal distribution of zooplankton in Akassa creek, a brackish water system in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Monthly samples were collected between the months of October-December, 2024 from 2 stations (Akassa 1 and Akassa 2) using a 55 µm plankton net. A total of 4 taxa were recorded, dominated by Lecane closterocerca; Acartia metanauplius and Arcella vulgaris. Akassa 1 recorded a higher diversity index (H’ = 1.312), lower dominance D (0.2861), higher richness S (4) taxa and a higher evenness J’ (0.9284) reflecting a more balanced community. On the other hand, Akassa 2 had a lower diversity H’ (0.8379), higher dominance D (0.4631), lower richness S (3 taxa), lower evenness J’ (0.7705) indicating a skewed community. The differences between the composition and abundance of zooplanktons in Akassa 1 and Akassa 2 suggests that spatial monitoring of diversity indices is critical for fisheries management. The findings provide unique data for conservation and fisheries management in Akassa creek.