Temperature, Oxygen, and Nutrient Distribution Patterns in Lake Erie, 1970

Abstract

Ten major surveys of biological and chemical variables in Lake Erie were carried out during the 1970 shipping season. The observed distributions of temperature, turbidity, oxygen, soluble and particulate phosphorus, nitrate plus nitrite, ammonia, and soluble reactive silica are presented. Comment on the probable causes of the observed distribution patterns has been included where appropriate. Ammonia quantities in the lake remained almost unchanged throughout the year while nitrate plus nitrite quantities varied considerably. The ratio of particulate to total phosphorus showed very little seasonal change.