Role of Aquatic Vegetation in Regulating Oxygen and pH Microgradients within Crocodile Breeding Pools

Aquatic vegetation plays a crucial yet under-studied role in shaping the physicochemical environment of crocodile breeding pools. While previous research has focused primarily on water quality management and biological health of crocodiles in captivity, there is limited understanding of how submerged and emergent plants influence micro-scale variations in oxygen and pH. This study reveals that vegetation-rich zones exhibit enhanced daytime oxygenation due to photosynthesis, moderated pH stability, and reduced nighttime oxygen depletion. The findings emphasize the ecological importance of aquatic vegetation in maintaining stable water chemistry and improving habitat quality in conservation breeding programs. Effective vegetation management can therefore strengthen captive crocodile rearing, reduce stress and mortality risks, and promote sustainable ecological engineering of crocodile breeding facilities.