Abstract

This study surveys floating and free-floating aquatic macrophytes across freshwater ecosystems in Dharashiv District, Maharashtra, India. Aquatic macrophytes are vital for maintaining habitat structure, biodiversity, and ecological processes, but their communities are increasingly affected by human activities—especially nutrient enrichment from agricultural runoff and untreated sewage, leading to eutrophication. Over four years (2018–2023), seasonal sampling was conducted in lakes, ponds, wetlands, and rivers, identifying 19 species across 14 families. The Araceae family was dominant, and invasive species like Eichhornia crassipes, Salvinia molesta, and Pistia stratiotes were widespread, forming dense mats that degrade water quality and suppress native flora. In contrast, native species such as Azolla pinnata, Lemna minor, and Spirodela polyrhiza supported nutrient uptake and aquatic food webs. Some species, like Nelumbo nucifera and Trapa natans, also held socio-economic value. The study found that eutrophication has shifted community composition toward fast-growing, nutrient-tolerant species, reducing habitat complexity. It emphasizes the need for integrated management, including nutrient control, phytoremediation, and invasive species removal. The findings provide a valuable baseline for ecological monitoring and highlight the importance of aquatic macrophytes as bioindicators in freshwater conservation planning for semi-arid regions like Dharashiv.