Khushbu Kumari & Arun Kumar*
University Department of Zoology, B.N.M.University, Madhepura, Bihar, India
Received : 09th December, 2019 ; Revised : 11th January, 2020
Abstract: The present study was undertaken to analyze water quality parameters in tributaries of Kosi River in Madhepura district of North Bihar, India. Three different tributaries, named locally as Kirkhidhar, Gomtidhar and river Sursar were selected for investigations. These, over flow channels and old river bed of Kosi River, are one of the prime sources of water in the study area. Though, these water resources are continuously subjected to tremendous anthropogenic pressure leads to degradation of water quality and depletion of biota. The samples were collected monthly from January 2018 to December 2018. Physico-chemical parameters analyzed were temperature, transparency, conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, total alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, chloride, nitrate, phosphate and BOD. Frequent flooding during monsoon season decreases some variables to a considerable extent. Correlation coefficient analysis showed high significant positive and negative correlation. The recorded parameters were within the prescribed limit of WHO and BIS except nitrate-nitrogen. With respect to water quality, tributaries studied was not highly polluted, water is suitable for irrigation and domestic purposes. But, there is an indication of increasing pollutant due to disposal of human and animal wastes and agricultural runoff, therefore, a proper monitoring of water quality is needed to avoid contamination.