Lake Ecosystems
Articles tagged with Lake Ecosystems
New study quantifies lake CO₂ emissions and their rising trend in China
A recent study by Chinese researchers has quantified lake carbon dioxide emissions in China, finding a significant increase of 24% over the past two decades. The study highlights the importance of high-resolution monitoring to refine lake carbon budgets and inform effective climate mitigation policies.
How soil microbes adapt to life in lakes
Researchers found two strategies used by bacteria to colonize new habitats: acquiring new traits and reducing genome size. This study sheds light on the evolutionary biology of soil microbes, revealing unexpected results about their adaptation to freshwater environments.
Can unpaved roads and watersheds co-exist? Researchers wade into the question
Researchers found that sediment loading to streams is significant under current conditions and that individual road crossings have a minimal impact. The study highlights the importance of considering the entire watershed when managing unpaved roads and pastures for maximum water quality effects.
Glacial lakes are growing rapidly in Alaska, and research shows where growth will continue
Research shows glacial lakes in Alaska expanding 50% faster than previously recorded, posing significant hazards and altering ecosystems. The study identifies areas where lakes may form and grow, helping with infrastructure planning and predicting changes to ecosystems, hazards, and recreation.
As tropical fish move north, UT San Antonio researcher tracks climate threats to Texas waterways
A UT San Antonio assistant professor is studying how climate change and urbanization affect freshwater ecosystems by tracking the expansion of exotic tropical fish species into northern regions. The project aims to provide practical tools for natural resource managers to protect Texas waterways.
Innovative system measures the state of lake ecosystems
Researchers developed a holistic monitoring system to investigate lake ecosystems' sensitivity to boat traffic, weather, and climate change. The system, WAMOS, accurately analyzes wave patterns and assigns causes, enabling precise modeling of ecosystem effects.
Thin ice may have protected lake water on frozen Mars
A team of researchers from Rice University discovered that lakes on ancient Mars could persist under thin seasonal ice for at least decades, contradicting earlier climate models. The study suggests that surface features shaped by sustained liquid water coexist with the idea that early Mars was too cold to support such conditions.
FAU Engineering awarded $600,000 FDEP grant to combat harmful algal blooms
Florida Atlantic University's College of Engineering has received a $600,379 grant to advance technology targeting harmful algal blooms in Florida's waterways. The project aims to develop novel 3D-printed adsorbent materials for efficient phosphate removal.
Roundworms discovered in Great Salt Lake are new to science
A new species of roundworms, Diplolaimelloides woaabi, has been discovered in the Great Salt Lake, characterized by its unique features and potential role in the lake's ecosystem. The discovery raises questions about how the worms arrived in the lake and their adaptation to highly saline environments.
Urban blue spaces: Quietly supporting food, income and community
A research team led by Göttingen University found that urban blue spaces play a critical role in food security and social inclusion in four major Indian cities. Women, the elderly, and marginalized communities most frequently collected, shared, cooked, and sold food products.
Reintroducing native African catfish into Lake Victoria reduced snail hosts and lowered schistosomiasis infection intensity in primary-school-aged children
Reintroducing native African catfish into Lake Victoria significantly reduced the number of snail hosts and lowered the intensity of schistosomiasis infections among primary school-age children. This biocontrol method provides an effective way to combat this parasitic disease in the region.
Small aquatic systems found to fix 15% of Earth’s nitrogen
Researchers found that ponds, lakes, rivers, and estuaries play a significant role in fixing nitrogen, supporting food webs and ecosystem productivity. They estimated that these systems fix the equivalent of 15% of total nitrogen fixed on land and in the open ocean, despite covering less than 10% of global surface area.
Coastline of lakes an important part of global carbon cycle
New research reveals that lake littoral zones store more carbon than previously thought, highlighting the need for inclusion in global carbon budgets. By including these zones, lakes may switch from being net carbon sources to net carbon sinks.
New study: Powerboats can impact lakes below the surface
A recent University of Minnesota study found that large surface waves produced by powerboats can have a significant impact on delicate lakebed ecosystems. Researchers recommend operating boats in deep water to minimize these impacts and avoid shallow spots, giving space between boats and shorelines.
Smallmouth bass evolve to resist removal in the Adirondacks
In response to annual removal of smallmouth bass from an Adirondack lake, the population shifted towards a fast-living and early-maturing life history strategy. This adaptation allowed the smaller fish to rapidly increase in numbers, even as larger fish were mostly eliminated.
Study finds hidden effects of wildfires on water systems
A new study reveals that wildfires have a profound impact on water systems, affecting microbial communities and nutrient cycling. The researchers found that moderate heat processing from fires leads to more bioavailable carbon for microbes, but also disrupts the nitrogen cycle and natural balance of aquatic ecosystems.
Loss of lake ice has wide-ranging environmental and societal consequences
The world's freshwater lakes are freezing over for shorter periods due to climate change, affecting more than a billion people worldwide. Changes in ice duration have major implications for human safety, water quality, biodiversity, and global nutrient cycles.
Unprecedented warming threatens earth’s lakes and their ecosystems
A recent study predicts that lakes worldwide will experience unprecedented surface and subsurface warming, leading to severe disruptions in ecosystems. Tropical lakes are expected to be the first to emerge from natural temperature bounds, while high-latitude lakes may shield their subsurface layers from surface warming.
Biodiversity loss from 2010 oil spill worse than predicted
The Deepwater Horizon oil spill released nearly 5 million barrels of crude oil and hydrocarbon gases, affecting an area of 1,100 square miles, nearly nine times larger than earlier studies. Biodiversity loss among harpacticoid copepods declined dramatically due to the spill.
Smoke covered 70% of California during biggest wildfire years
A recent study published in Communications: Earth & Environment found that wildfires covered 70% of California during the largest fire seasons on record. The study measured the impact of wildfire smoke on lakes and found changes in temperature, light, and oxygen levels, affecting lake productivity and health.
Cloudy waters causes African fish to develop bigger eyes
Researchers found that young African fish raised in cloudy water developed larger eye structures than those raised in clear water. As the fish age, they lose this ability to adapt. The study also showed that older fish have bigger brains and optic lobes, suggesting different sensory demands at various stages of life.
University of Oklahoma researchers discover genetic collaboration in harmful algae
Researchers have discovered that complementary genes in bacteria and algae living in the same algal colonies coordinate the use and movement of nutrients within the colony. This discovery could lead to new ways to prevent harmful algal blooms, improving water quality and habitat for aquatic organisms.
Lake ‘healthcare screening’ needed to safeguard global human health and ecosystems
A study highlights the urgent need for coordinated action to address issues impacting nearly 21 million lakes worldwide. Lakes face various ailments, including thermal, circulatory, and metabolic challenges, posing risks to millions of people reliant on their services.
New approach to monitoring freshwater quality can identify sources of pollution, and predict their effects
A new water quality analysis technique can detect organic chemicals in rivers and lakes, identifying their source and predicting their impact. This method uses high-resolution mass spectrometry to analyze water samples within an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of all organic molecules present.
In Lake Erie, climate change scrambles zooplankton’s seasonal presence
Zooplankton biomass and behavioral patterns have been altered by human-driven changes in water temperature and food webs. The study found that warming temperatures and invasive species modify the timing of certain events in their life cycles.
Numerical models for a better understanding of long-term effects on lake ecosystems
Numerical models help assess ecological impacts of climate change on lakes by simulating changes in phytoplankton composition and community stability. The study found that warming increased seasonal variability in phytoplankton, leading to reduced overall evenness and increased species loss over time.
Scientists outline actions to protect lochs from climate change -
Climate change is causing rapid warming of Scotland's lochs, with potential costs of £16.5 million annually due to algal blooms and reduced water quality. Implementing efficient land management practices could reduce phosphorus pollution by 20% under a best-case scenario.
UT researchers investigate how freshwater diatoms stay in the light
Diatoms, a vital component of lake ecosystems, are facing declining ice cover due to warming temperatures. Researchers studied winter blooms in Lake Erie and found that some diatom species can form 'diatom ice cubes' that float to the surface and absorb light for photosynthesis.
Microalgae with unusual cell biology
Researchers studied Prorocentrum cordatum to understand its molecular processes, revealing a unique photosynthetic machinery that may help it adapt to changing light conditions. The findings could lead to improved understanding of harmful algal blooms and their role in climate change.
Low oxygen in lakes may breathe new life into conservation efforts for water quality
A study published in Global Change Biology found that low deep-water oxygen concentrations lead to increased algae growth and further oxygen declines. This positive feedback cycle can result in frequent algal blooms, disrupting lake ecosystems and human health.
Effects of invasive trout on native charr in Kamikochi, Nagano
Research finds invasive trout compete with native white-spotted charr for aquatic prey. Brown trout also influence ecosystems by preying on terrestrial organisms, further harming native populations.
Experiment shows how predator mass mortality events affect food webs
A study experimentally caused a predator die-off to understand its impact on freshwater ecosystems, finding that rapid predator deaths lead to an increase in zooplankton biomass and phytoplankton proliferation. However, this effect can sometimes introduce decaying biomass that causes harmful algal blooms.
Colony spawning and enhanced brood protection in invasive Bluegill facilitates their spread
The study observed that invasive Bluegill in Lake Nojiri, Japan, displayed unique colony spawning behaviors, with males constructing nests in close proximity to each other. Removal of guarding males revealed four brood predator species, with conspecific Bluegill constituting over 90% of all predators.
Trout at risk in most Adirondack lakes due to climate warming, lake browning
A new study by Cornell University found that only 5% of Adirondack lakes can maintain cold and oxygenated water, making it unlivable for trout and other cold-water species. Climate warming and lake browning have severe consequences for temperate lakes in the region.
Wildfires also impact aquatic ecosystems
Research from the University of California San Diego finds that wildfires transform lakes and aquatic ecosystems, storing more carbon and emitting less CO2. The study suggests a shift in the role of aquatic systems in the global carbon cycle, with potential consequences for aquatic health and fisheries.
Unique marimo threatened by rising lake temperatures
Marimo, special growth forms of filamentous algae, are threatened by rising lake temperatures due to global warming. The warmer water temperature outpaces the inward decomposition, making them increasingly fragile and decreasing their shell thickness.
Role of microhabitats in shaping diversity of periphytic diatom assemblages
Researchers study microhabitats in Lake Tisza and find that diverse macrovegetation supports unique microhabitat diversity for benthic diatoms. Water management planning is crucial for maintaining biodiversity in multipurpose lakes.
Researchers find evolutionary adaption in trout of Wyoming's Wind River Mountains
University of Wyoming researchers found that trout in Wind River Mountains lakes have adapted to their environment, showing rapid evolution. The study reveals a change in gill rakers, likely related to food sources, and highlights the importance of eco-evolutionary interactions.
Road salt pollution in many US lakes could stabilize at or below thresholds set by the EPA
A new study suggests that with careful management, road salt concentrations in US lakes may stabilize below EPA-set thresholds to protect aquatic life. Reducing road salt application rates could yield additional environmental and economic benefits without threatening road safety.
Fish mercury peaks in winter and near spawning, and reduces after growing season
A recent study from the University of Helsinki found that fish mercury concentrations are highest in winter and near spring spawning, but lowest in autumn after the growing season. This seasonal pattern is linked to changes in fish metabolism and food availability during colder months.
Concordia researchers fight shallow lake algae blooms with floating filtration technique
Researchers at Concordia University have developed a system of floating geotextile filters that efficiently remove suspended solids, algae, and nutrients from shallow lakes. The study shows promising results in lake water remediation, with the potential to scale up and benefit larger bodies of water.
Why are polders an important part of China’s water heritage?
Researchers argue that polders are an important part of China's water heritage, reflecting the country's long history of water management. Over 2,500 years, polders have evolved in response to changing societal needs, adapting to agricultural modernisation and urban encroachment.
Eating viruses can power growth, reproduction of microorganism
A team of researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has discovered that certain microorganisms, such as Halteria, can eat high numbers of chloroviruses, which are known to infect green algae. This finding suggests that virovory, a virus-only diet, can support physiological growth and even population growth in an organism.
Limiting global warming now can preserve valuable freshwater resource
Researchers warn of impending 35-60 year droughts in western US unless greenhouse gas emissions are curbed to limit warming to 2.5 degrees Celsius. Mountain snowpack is shrinking due to global warming, threatening agriculture, ecosystem support, and urban water supplies.
Climate change could make High Arctic fertile ground for emerging pandemics: uOttawa study
A novel genetic analysis by University of Ottawa researchers reveals that climate change could lead to an increased risk of viral spillover in the High Arctic. This increased risk may result in new viruses infecting previously uninfected hosts, potentially leading to emerging pandemics.
Climate change is making lakes less blue
A new study finds that climate change may decrease the percentage of blue lakes worldwide, leading to shifts in lake water color and ecosystem health. The research uses satellite images to determine a global inventory of lake colors, finding that green-brown lakes are more widespread than previously thought.
Same same but different
Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to detect intraspecies genomic diversity, or microdiversity, of uncultivated bacteria. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of microbial ecology and evolution, as previously overlooked variations are now being studied.
Large-scale study of Brazilian wetlands ramps up evidence that biodiversity loss undermines ecosystem functioning
A new study analyzing 72 lakes in four large Neotropical wetlands of Brazil reveals that human impacts on biodiversity compromise wetland multifunctionality. Strong associations between aquatic organism diversity and wetland functioning were found, highlighting the crucial role of species richness in driving ecosystem health.
Natural clean-up: Bacteria can remove plastic pollution from lakes
A study found that certain bacteria grow more efficiently on plastic bags than leaves and twigs, breaking down carbon compounds in the process. The bacteria's growth is stimulated by plastic pollution, which primes them for rapid breakdown of other natural carbon compounds.
Have Antillean manatees crossed the Panama Canal?
Over 50 sightings of manatees have been reported between the Gatun Lake and Miraflores Locks since 1977, leading to speculation about their possible entry into the Eastern Pacific Ocean. A population of 20-25 manatees was estimated in the Gatun Lake in 2015.
Metal mayhem: New research finds toxic metals absorbed by Great Salt Lake plants and insects
Great Salt Lake wetland plants can accumulate hazardous metal pollution, which can be passed up the food chain to herbivorous insects. This study found high concentrations of lead, mercury, and other metals in plant tissues, threatening terrestrial ecosystems.
Major study to examine beavers’ Arctic impact
A major new study is investigating the effects of beavers on the Arctic landscape, other animals, and local Indigenous communities. The project aims to understand the complex interlinkages between ecological and sociological changes as beaver numbers increase.
Stemming the tide of invasive species in Great Lakes
A bi-national regulation targeting ships entering the Great Lakes since mid-2000s has reduced invasive species risk by 85%, with a significant impact on fisheries and biodiversity. The study suggests that saltwater flushing through ballast tanks is a crucial control strategy.
Study of algae in Acadia National Park lakes shows recovery from acidification
Researchers in Acadia National Park found that regulations reducing atmospheric sulfur have led to a partial recovery of algae ecosystems, despite ongoing climate change impacts. Clear-water lakes like Jordan Pond are more sensitive to warming than brown-water lakes like Seal Cove Pond, leading to slower recovery rates.
Satellite laser altimetry helps monitor changes in global lake water storage
A recent study using satellite laser altimetry found that about 54% of lakes showed a significant trend in water-level change from 2003 to 2020, with 80% showing an upward trend. The total water volume of observed lakes increased at a rate of 10.88 ±16.45 Gt/yr during this period.
Government guidelines across North America, Europe fail to protect lakes from salt pollution
A global study reveals that freshwater lake ecosystems are being damaged by salt concentrations below government-protective thresholds. The loss of zooplankton triggers a cascade effect causing an increase in algae, potentially altering nutrient cycling and water quality.
First-ever study looks at glacial lakes, dams in Alaska and potential for flooding
Researchers have developed an interest in studying glacial lakes and their impact on glacier behavior and downstream ecosystems. Over a 35-year period, a team of scientists has produced a detailed inventory of glacial lakes and dams in Alaska and northwest Canada.
Seasonal variability in lakes’ environmental processes reveal susceptibility to climate change
A new study has shown how climate change impacts the ecosystems of large lakes by varying their water layers' mixing through seasons. Mixing controls heat, oxygen, nutrients, and pollutants between layers, shaping ecosystems' adaptations.
Crayfish and carp among the invasive species pushing lakes towards ecosystem collapse
Invasive fish and crustaceans significantly reduce lake organism abundance, degrading water quality. Researchers provide guidance on managing waterbodies to prevent ecosystem collapse.