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Munchingiputtu Stream, Andhra Pradesh, India

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India, Andhra Pradesh , Eastern Ghats, Alluri Sitharama Raju District

Located in the forested valleys near Munchingiputtu in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, this untouched hill stream flows through ancient tribal lands once part of the Eastern Deccan Kingdoms. The region is rich in biodiversity and forms part of the Eastern Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

The stream is shallow, with clear, oxygen-rich water running over sandy-gravel beds, shaded by mixed deciduous and semi-evergreen trees. Native fishes like Devario devario, Horadandia brittani, Dario dario (very rare), Barilius bendelisis, Carinotetraodon travancoricus (recent introduction), Puntius chola, and Mystus vittatus thrive here.

Leaf litter, roots, and smooth stones shape the underwater landscape. Seasonal monsoon changes influence water level and flow, creating a dynamic habitat for both aquatic and terrestrial life.

Submitted by
Protim Sarkar
Approved by
Hans-Georg Evers & Friedrich Bitter
GPS
18.3660984, 82.5084610
Geographical region
Southern Asia
Drainage Basin
Godavari River Basin
River catchment
Sileru River Catchment
Water body type
Stream
Water body name
Munchingiputtu Hill Stream
Water body part
Channel
Water body course
Upper course
Water body: tributary of
Hill streams
Tributary name
Sileru River

Videos above and below water

Water Chemistry

Water information

Water type
fresh-water
Water color
Clear water
Water transparency
High
Concentration of sediments
Low
Water temperature
Depending on season and time of day, water temperature ranges from 17-28 °C
Water flow/curent
Strong

Chemical parameters

pH
6.85
Conductivity
108
GH
35 mg/l
dGH
KH
28 mg/l
dKH
Dissolved Oxygen
6.76 %

Substrate in nature

Sand
Beige
Pebble/Gravel
Beige
Stone
Grey
Stone form
Roundish
Silt/Mud
Beige
Leaves
Few
Driftwood
None
Submerged terrestrial vegetation
Yes

Aquatic Biotope

Date of collecting
19/11/2024
Collecting area
Centre
Water depth
0,5m
Air temperature
21 °C
Sunlight
Partial shade

Environment

Environment
Untouched
Surrounding area

The Munchingiputtu stream flows through a mid-elevation valley in the Eastern Ghats, surrounded by undulating hills covered with moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forest. The area is rich in biodiversity and lies near tribal settlements that practice small-scale agriculture.

Tall riparian trees like Phoenix sylvestris provide shade, while bamboo clusters and wild grasses line the stream banks. Rocky slopes, leaf litter, and forest debris contribute to a naturally filtered, shaded, and nutrient-rich aquatic ecosystem.

Underwater landscape

The underwater landscape of the Munchingiputtu stream is characterized by a shallow, gently flowing current over a mixed substrate of coarse sand, rounded pebbles, gravel, and occasional submerged rocks. Organic detritus such as fallen dry leaves, twigs, and palm debris accumulate along edges and eddies, supporting aufwuchs and microinvertebrates.

Aquatic plants like Vallisneria spiralis and Hygrophila difformis are rooted in calmer zones, while algae and biofilm cover submerged surfaces. Clear water and dappled sunlight through the forest canopy create a dynamic and well-oxygenated habitat.

Fish list:

  • Devario devario (Cyprinidae )
  • Danio rerio (Cyprinidae )
  • Barilius bendelisis (Cyprinidae )
  • Dario dario (Badidae)
  • Carinotetraodon travancoricus (Tetraodontidae)
  • Horadandia brittani (Cyprinidae )

Aquatic plant list:

  • Vallisneria spiralis (Hydrocharitaceae )
  • Hygrophila difformis (Plantaginaceae)

Terrestrial vegetation list:

  • Phoenix sylvestris (Arecaceae)
Threats to ecology

The Munchingiputtu stream ecosystem faces increasing threats from deforestation, shifting cultivation, and illegal sand mining that disturb natural stream flow and substrate. Livestock grazing and agrochemical runoff from nearby tribal farmlands degrade water quality.

Seasonal tourism and dumping of plastic waste also contribute to habitat loss, affecting native fish, aquatic plants, and aufwuchs communities critical for ecological balance.

Riparian zone

Trees near the aquatic habitat
Many -

Bibliography

Sitography

→ Research Gate

Comment by the expert

Hans-Georg Evers: Excellent! Evaluated all components short but to the point. Interesting biotope!

Friedrich Bitter: The presented biotope and aquarium show great differences.