BIODIVERSITY OF LAKES AND TANKS IN KOLHAPUR CITY, MAHARASHTRA

The current study examines ecosystem diversity in general, it focuses specifically on the wetland biodiversity found in the city's lakes and tanks. Researchers have used questionnaires, interviews, and photographs to catalogue the flora and fauna of the study area. Information about the fish and amphibians of lakes has been compiled with the help of fishermen and locals. Photographs, binoculars, and observations from bird watchers have helped for the identification of many species of birds. The next step is to try to establish a connection between the different kinds of plants, fish, and birds. Polyaithia Longifolia (Ulta ashoka), Mangifera indica (Amba), Pithecellobiumdulce (Vilayti chinch), Delonixregia (Gulmohar), Caesalpinia pulcherima carnea (Shankasur), and Prunus padus (Naral) are abundant tree species around Rankala lake. Around Rajaram lake, only about 15 plant spices were observed during the research. Rankala Lake is home to at least 20 different species of fish. Hanuman Lake is home to only ten different species of fish. All lakes have amphibians such Indian Flag Shell Turtle (Lissemys Punctata), Checkered Keel Back Snake, and Common Frog.