Diversity of Blue Green Algae from Paddy Fields

Author(s): M. Aruna, M. Srinivas

Blue green algae are found in all types of aquatic bodies. Paddy fields represent one such habitat. An attempt has been made to isolate cyanobacteria from paddy fields of Siddipet region in Telangana State. Blue Green Algae are the most important nitrogen fixing organisms because of their autotrophic nutrition and flourish in paddy fields and known to sustain the fertility of this ecosystem. This paddy ecosystem allows BGA to function properly, selectively and effectively.To initiate the study, soil samples were collected in clean polythene bags. At the time of collection, the surface of the sampling station was cleaned by removing small stones, pebbles and grasses. The collected samples were brought to the laboratory, cultures were maintained and periodical observations were made on alga appearing in the cultures. As many as 34 species of cyanobacteria were identified.Both heterocystous and non- heterocystous forms were observed. The Nostocaceae has been reported by maximum number of genera and species. The genera Scytonema, Oscillatoria, Nostoc and Lyngbya were represented by maximum number of species.

Paddy fields, Heterocystous and non-heterocystous forms

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