J.D. Vasait, R.P. Borale and K.B. Khairnar
Abstract
Hot springs are natural geothermal features that arise when groundwater is heated by contact with magma or hot rock within the Earthâs crust. These springs are unique environments, often rich in minerals, and exhibit specific physicochemical properties that influence aquatic ecosystems, particularly insect diversity. This study focuses on four hot springs in the North Maharashtra region, analysing their water chemistry and the diversity of aquatic insects. Key water parameters, such as temperature (40-45 °C), pH (7.36-7.62), and dissolved oxygen, were measured, revealing variations in chemical content like total dissolved solids (TDS), sulphates, and nitrates. These variations in water quality influence insect diversity and distribution, with species from the orders Hemiptera, Coleoptera, and Odonata being observed across the springs, except in Kundava, where no insects were found. The study highlights how physicochemical conditions, such as alkalinity, hardness, and nutrient levels, shape the ecological composition of hot spring ecosystems and calls for further research to understand the ecological roles of these unique habitats.