J. SHARMA AND P.K. BEHERA
Abstract
Benthic macro-invertebrates are the most appropriate and ideal organisms for bio-indicators of biodegradable organic pollution in surface water bodies. Apart from this specific characteristic many researchers have found that some of the orders (Molluscs, Annelides, Coleoptera, Polychaeta and Oligochaeta) of macroinvertebrates can also accumulate heavy metals. This review highlights the case studies of different groups of macro-invertebrates for heavy metal bioaccumulation, which help to understand the fact that macro invertebrates can serve as potential bioindicators of heavy metal pollution.