Investigation of factors affecting the trophic state of a shallow Mediterranean reconstructed lake

Abstract

In this article, we focus on shallow sub-tropical lakes and study the factors that determine their trophic state and food web structure. We use the model PCLake to simulate lake nutrient dynamics and investigate key factors causing eutrophication, such as in-lake nutrient cycling, long residence time and low depths. Modeling results are validated in a reconstructed lake that is also used as a reservoir located in central Greece. Various operational scenarios and their effect on lake trophic state are explored. A climate change scenario is also presented, showcasing its influence on lake nutrient dynamics and food web structure. Our results confirm that lake residence time, lake depth and nutrient inflows are the factors that determine the lake trophic state, while climate change seems to slightly intensify the mechanisms that establish lake eutrophic conditions. © 2017 Elsevier B.V.