ABSTRACT
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the Ogba River, Edo state, Nigeria, emphasizing its physical and chemical characteristics, the composition of bankroot biotope invertebrates, and the intricate relationships between environmental factors and invertebrate communities. This study was carried out for four (3) months across three (3) stations from November, 2024 through February, 2024.The Ogba River exhibited remarkable environmental stability, with key findings including mean air temperatures of 28°C ± 2.415, 29.5°C ± 1.323, and 27.5°C ± 2.327 for Stations 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Water temperature ranged from 26.25°C ± 0.75 to 26.5°C ± 0.5 across stations. Flow rates, ranging from 8.62 cm/s to 50.00 cm/s, displayed mean values of 6.70 cm/s, 0.17 cm/s, and 11.41 cm/s for Stations 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The study also assessed several chemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), suspended solids (SS), dissolved oxygen (DO), and more. Across these parameters, the analysis consistently revealed no significant spatial differences (P>0.05) across all stations. A total of 14 taxa were identified, comprising 443 individual specimens. The investigation of bankroot biotope invertebrates revealed a rich diversity of taxa inhabiting the riverbanks. Notably, in station 1, a total of 8 taxa were recorded, with a combined count of 181 individuals. Station 2 yielded the highest diversity with 13 taxa but had a lower total count of 83 individuals. Station 3 exhibited 10 taxa with a total count of 130 individuals. The river's stability, biodiversity, and interconnectedness with environmental factors underscore its significance for both ecological conservation and sustainable water resource management. Future research, ongoing monitoring, and proactive management practices are essential to ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the Ogba River and its surrounding ecosystem
