Phosphorus dynamics in shallow eutrophic lakes: an example from Zeekoevlei, South Africa

Das, S.K., Routh, J., Roychoudhury, A.N., Val Klump, J. and Ranjan, R.K. (2009) Phosphorus dynamics in shallow eutrophic lakes: an example from Zeekoevlei, South Africa. Hydrobiologia, 619(1), pp. 55-66. (doi: 10.1007/s10750-008-9600-0)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10750-008-9600-0

Abstract

Zeekoevlei is the largest freshwater lake in South Africa and has been suffering from hyper-eutrophic conditions since last few decades. We have used total P (TP), dissolved phosphate (PO43−), organic P (OP), calcium (Ca) and iron (Fe) bound P fractions to investigate the relevant physical, chemical and biological processes responsible for sedimentation and retention of P and to study phosphorus (P) dynamics in this shallow lake. In addition, redox proxies (V/Cr and Th/U ratios) are used to study the prevailing redox conditions in sediments. Adsorption by CaCO3 and planktonic assimilation of P are found to control P sedimentation in Zeekoevlei. Low concentration of the labile OP fraction in surface sediments restricts the release of P by bacterial remineralisation. Low molar Ca/P and Fe/P ratios indicate low P retention capacity of sediments, and P is most likely released by desorption from wind-induced resuspended sediments and mixing of pore water with the overlying water column.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Das, Dr Supriyo
Authors: Das, S.K., Routh, J., Roychoudhury, A.N., Val Klump, J., and Ranjan, R.K.
Subjects:Q Science > QH Natural history > QH301 Biology
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Geographical and Earth Sciences
Journal Name:Hydrobiologia
ISSN:0018-8158
ISSN (Online):1573-5117
Published Online:18 October 2008

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