Climate Change-Enhanced Cyanobacteria Domination in Lake Kinneret: A Retrospective Overview

Abstract

The objective of this study is re-evaluation of the long-term record of limnological parameters in Lake Kinneret (1970–2018) and its drainage basin (1940–2018) aimed at an indication of the possible impact of climate change on water quality in Lake Kinneret. The methodological approach is based on indication of significant changes, of temperature increase, decline in rainfall, causing a reduction in river discharges, and lake water inflows. These climatological changes were accompanied by a reduction in nitrogen and a slight increase in phosphorus in the lake Epilimnion. The outcome was Epilimnetic Nitrogen deficiency and Phosphorus sufficiency, which enhanced domination replacement of Peridinium spp. by Cyanobacterial. We concluded sequel suggested climate change affected water quality deterioration in Lake Kinneret.