Diversityof Ducks (Leach, 1819) and Water Quality of Hamal Lake Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

Hamal Lake is considered as the welcoming ground for migratory as well as resident birds such as ducks. However, there is no implementation of strict rules to protect this splendid lake from environmental pollutants and hunting causing duck and other wildlife species vulnerable. In the context, a comprehensive study was proposed to record the variety of duck species and their conservation status through thorough study of their morphology, and observations of their habitat. The identified duck species of hamal lake include Anas acuta  (Northern pintail), Anas carolinensis (Green-winged teal), and Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard).Morphological variation in male and female of discovered species was obvious. The conservation condition was identified as very poor in the wildlife in Hamal Lake since there were no conservation measures of the ducks and other wildlife being implemented. Poaching and hunting were also witnessed; freshwater habitat was also damaged as a result of the huge pollution made by locals. It was noted that the Hamal Lake had a lot of ducks to be caught to engage in illegal trade that takes place openly across different markets in Qambar Shahdadkot. It is that threatening condition of ducks which must be immediately conducted. exertions to protect ducks that play important role in ecosystem. The water quality of lake was analyzed as followed:pH:8.1±0.6, EC µS/cm: 2945.1±1617.4, TDS mg-1:1843.5±691.1, T-Hard mg-1:530.1±170.4, T-Alk mg-1:530.1±170.4, Cl mg-1:430.2±88.1, SO4mg-1:460.0±122.3, PO4 mg-1:443.6±101.3, NO2mg-1:4.2±1.4, NO3mg-1:7.8±3.1, CO2 mg-1:18.9±3.2.