Effects of Fish and Plankton on Lake Temperature and Mixing Depth

• DOI: 10.1126/science.247.4940.312
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T22:10:14Z
• Authors: A. Mazumder; W. D. Taylor; D. J. McQueen; D. R.S. Lean
• Keywords: Epilimnion

A comparative study of small temperate lakes (<20 square kilometers) indicates that the mixing depth or epilimnion is directly related to light penetration measured as Secchi depth. Clearer have deeper depths. This relation result greater incident solar radiation in and enclosures with high water clarity. Data show largely a function size distribution biomass algae indicated by between index plankton (slope) Larger steeper slopes (indicative communities dominated plankton) are associated shallower In abundances planktivorous fish, clarity reduced because large zooplankton, which feed on algae, fish predation. The net effect depth, lower metalimnetic temperature heat content column. Consequently, can change thermal structure modifying penetration.