The Impact of Climate Change on the River Jordan-Lake Kinneret (Israel) Ecosystem

Abstract

The long-term record of River Jordan-Lake Kinneret ecosystem indicates some significant climate condition changes: water temperature increase, decline in rainfall, and diminishing river discharges and lake water inflows accompanied by a reduction in nitrogen and a slight increase in phosphorus in the Lake upper layers (Epilimnion). Lake Water level decreased, Prolongation of Residence Time was documented, nutrient inputs and dynamics modifications resulting water quality deterioration. As a result of temperature elevation and nitrogen deficiency, the biomass of Peridinium spp significantly reduced and was replaced by Cyanobacterial biomass enhancement. Dryness trend expressed as enhanced frequency of drought seasons initiated an elevation of lake water salinity. It has been suggested that these changes in the phytoplankton community structure are caused by regional climate change. This study evaluates a multi-annual respective approach although the summer is the most critical. The objective of this research is evaluate the background of the ecosystem structure modification aimed at define future potential management design.