What is the difference between oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes

Furthermore, another notable difference between oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes is that the eutrophic lakes have a high oxygen demand and high rate of decomposition. The below infographic presents an in-depth analysis of the difference between oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes. Trophic level of the lakes defines based on the nutrient composition of the lake. There is a minute concentration of nutrients present in the oligotrophic lakes. In contrast, there is a high concentration of nutrients in the eutrophic lakes.

Furthermore, in eutrophic lakes, there is a high level of nitrogen and phosphorus. Eutrophic lakes result due to excess surface run-off water from agricultural lands and due to pollution.

Therefore, eutrophic lakes are rich in algal populations and lead to fast decomposition of dead aquatic organic matter. In comparison, oligotrophic lakes have a very less or absence of algal forms and contain clear cold water. This is the difference between oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes. Available here 2. Martin, Pierre, and Robert A. National Library of Medicine, May Available here. Samanthi Udayangani holds a B. Degree in Plant Science, M. Your email address will not be published. Figure Oligotrophic Lake.

The oxygen level in the lake is comparatively high and the temperatures are comparatively low. The water in the lake is quite cold and common fish type presence in the lake are whitefish and trout.

The bottom of the lake is not suitable for the survival of aquatic organisms. Eutrophic lakes are those with a high level of nutritional content, high biological productivity, and dark water. The kind of lakes is created through eutrophication. The level of phosphate and nitrates in the lake is quite high.

The content of nutrients supports the growth of algae. This lakes or water bodies support aquatic species that require well-oxygenated, cold waters such as lake trout, char and whitefish. Eutrophic lakes or water body is one with relatively high levels of biological productivity. Eutrophic lakes are very fertile from all the nutrients carried into the lake from the surrounding landscape. Due to high contents of nutrients especially nitrogen and phosphorus these water bodies support a large number of plants and algae.

Viva Differences. Oligotrophic lakes are usually found in the cold regions of the world where mixing of nutrients is rare and slow due to the low temperatures of the lake waters. Eutrophic an be found anywhere.