An Image Based Zooplankton Identification Key
F. A. Oyedapo *
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jos Nigeria, Jos Plateau State, Nigeria and TETFUND Centre of Excellent in Food Security, University of Jos, Jos Plateau State, Nigeria.
L. E. Akpa
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Jos Nigeria, Jos Plateau State, Nigeria.
D. O. Oshibanjo
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jos Nigeria, Jos Plateau State, Nigeria and TETFUND Centre of Excellent in Food Security, University of Jos, Jos Plateau State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: This study investigates spatial variation in zooplankton species composition across four man-made reservoirs.
Study Design: Reservoirs were sampled once monthly for two years. Sampling was done using plankton nets to sieve the reservoir water.
Place and Duration of Study: Sampling for zooplankton species was carried out in four reservoirs in Jos North Local Government Area, Jos, Plateau State. Sampling was done from April 2022 to March 2024
Methodology: Zooplankton samples were examined under a light microscope, and images were captured using a digital microscope camera at the Applied Hydrobiology Laboratory, University of Jos.
Results: Sixty-two photomicrographs of some common zooplankton in these Jos Plateau reservoirs revealed four groups of zooplankton, namely: Protozoa (7 species), Rotifers (29 species), Cladocerans (15 species) and Copepods (11 species), with rotifers being the most diverse.
Conclusion: Rotifers were the most diverse group, indicating their ecological importance in these reservoirs. The photomicrographs generated provide valuable resources for teaching and future research.
Keywords: Zooplankton species, photomicrographs, reservoirs, Jos Plateau State