Abstract:
The study was conducted to assess the diversity and abundance of aquatic macrophytes in the
southeastern region of Bangladesh, encompassing the Noakhali, Cumilla, and Chandpur districts.
The study was carried out over the period of July 2022 to June 2023. This research utilized a
mixed-methods approach, incorporating observation of the study area, qualitative interviews, and
quantitative surveys. Five types of aquatic macrophytes, 47 species from 18 orders and 25
families were identified. These are free-floating, rooted-floating, emergent, submerged, and
marginal. Among the three locations, Noakhali was recorded as the highest with 44 species,
followed by Cumilla with 43, and Chandpur with 35. In Noakhali, seasonal variation analysis
showed that 39% of species were found in the rainy season, 14% in summer, 14% in winter, and
20% year-round. In Cumilla, 35% of aquatic macrophytes were available in the rainy season, and
14%, 12%, and 5% in winter, spring, and autumn, respectively. In Chandpur, 37% of aquatic
macrophytes were prevalent in the rainy season, 26% were found year-round, 9% in winter, 14% in
summer, and 6% each in spring and autumn. In Noakhali, 44% of macrophytes were frequent,
33% moderate, and 23% rare. In Cumilla, 49% were frequent, 44% moderate, and 14% rare.
Chandpur reported 49% frequent, 31% moderate, and 20% rare species. The order Alismatales
emerged as the dominant order comparatively across all locations. This research will provide
insights into the biodiversity of aquatic macrophytes in this area, thus supporting effective
management strategies.
