Oligotrophic Lakes

07/08/26

“What’s special about deep, cold, clear lakes?”

Lakes form in all sorts of conditions. Some lakes have cold water that’s deep and provides only low biological productivity. Their waters are clear and dense with dissolved oxygen because low nutrient levels lead to fewer plants and algae that would otherwise cloud the site. The bottom layer of the lakes is typically much colder than the top in summertime, creating a different habitat. These Oligotrophic Lakes are a wonder to behold and are commonly found in high-altitude mountain environments.

• Earth/Climate science