In the present studies, limnological investigations were undertaken at Harike wetland of Punjab (India). This wetland is one of the six RAMSAR sites in India. The wetland which is situated at the confluence of river Satluj and Beas covers 28 sq. Kms and is a famous Bird Sanctuary. Studies pertaining to several Biological & Physicochemical parameters were carried from Jan 1990 to Dec 1993. Six collection sites were selected for the present studies and periodic sampling was carried out. The studies indicated that the water of this wetland is hard, alkaline and rich in nutrients. Sitewise and seasonal variations were also recorded for several studied parameters. The studies also included statistical correlations among all the studied parameters and identification of bioindicator species.

Biological studies showed that the wetland supports 21 taxa of Protozoa, 59 of Rotifera, 27 of Crustacea, 32 of Insecta, 12 of Nematoda & Annelida, 39 of Molluska, 10 of Reptilia, 6 of Amphibia, 26 of fishes and 172 of Avia.

The wetland is in threat from siltation, weed invasion, water pollution, encroachment and human interference. Concentrated efforts are required to save the wetland fauna and flora.