Diatom Diversity of Ganga River at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
Diatoms are known to exhibit specific distribution patterns in response to various environmental conditions. Therefore, the data on diatom diversity and taxonomy in the Ganga River at different ghats can be of significant value in forensic investigations involving water bodies. Diatom profiles unique to each location can serve as a distinctive fingerprint, aiding in confirming or excluding certain locations as sources of water samples. This can provide crucial evidence in cases involving drowning, accident reconstruction, criminal activities, or environmental incidents. However, it is essential to note that diatom communities can be influenced by seasonality and environmental factors, which must be carefully considered when making inferences in forensic contexts.