Diagnosis of the Condition of Aquatic Ecosystems Using a Partial Assessment of Ecological and Trophic States: An Example of Small Lakes in Northern Poland

Abstract

The current state of aquatic ecosystems was assessed for lakes in two river–lake systems: Święta Struga (Święte and Ocypelek) and Kałębnica (Czarne Południowe and Kałębie). Trophic states were determined using the Vollenweider, Nürnberg, and Carlson methods. Additionally, shoreline changes were analyzed for all lakes concerning their natural character, and physicochemical parameters were utilized as auxiliary elements in the assessment of the ecological state following the guidelines of Directive 2000/60/EC. Supplementary to these methods, the ecological evaluation of the littoral zone utilized meiobenthic organism grouping as an indicator. The results indicate significant differences among the studied reservoirs. Lake Święte is a reservoir bordering mesotrophy and eutrophy, with the ecological state of the littoral zone showing ongoing trophic development. Lake Ocypelek exemplifies a eutrophic reservoir undergoing progressive degradation. The lakes in the Kałębnica system also exhibit advanced trophic conditions, with Lake Kałębie being a eutrophic reservoir. Its shoreline has been significantly altered due to the development of the direct catchment area. In contrast, Lake Czarne Południowe serves as an example of a mesotrophic reservoir, with a substantially changed shoreline. Considering physicochemical elements and chlorophyll a concentration, the water quality for all examined lakes was found to be below the good category. The diagnosis of the condition of lake aquatic ecosystems requires an individualized approach to each of them. Therefore, employing various methods for their assessment, encompassing physico-chemical, biological, and morphological parameters, provides the opportunity to initiate potential remedial actions that will effectively contribute to their improvement. Conducting low-cost research involving a multidisciplinary approach to diagnose the state of aquatic ecosystems is becoming a crucial element in lake monitoring.