Abstract
Many studies have shown that macrophytes play a significant role in controlling eutrophication; however, only a few of these are based on macrophyte biomass. Based on the growth characteristic of macrophytes, we propose an approach for the assessment of the optimal biomass of macrophytes in the decay and growth periods in Lake Datong (a shallow lake), using a lake ecological model. The results showed that the pollution load of the lake should be reduced by 50% while conforming to the Environmental Quality Standards for Surface Water (EQSSW) Class Ⅲ. In contrast, with an increase in the pollution load of 5%, the results indicate that the lake may deteriorate to a turbid state over the next few years. The macrophyte biomass should be harvested during the decay period, when 80% biomass is beneficial to the water quality of the eutrophic shallow lake. Based on macrophyte simulation from 2020–2024, the wet biomass of macrophytes should be controlled at 5.5 kg/m2. The current macrophyte biomass in Lake Datong is four-fold higher than the simulated optimal biomass. This study provides a reference for the adequate ecological restoration of the lake and its subsequent maintenance, as well as scientific support for improving the comprehensive evaluation standard of healthy lakes and the theoretical basis of lake ecological restoration.
Highlights
The restoration of macrophytes is an important link in the management and ecological restoration of eutrophic shallow lakes [1]
The aims of this study are to (1) develop an optimal biomass assessment method for macrophytes in shallow lakes during growth and decline phases based on field investigations, indoor experiments, and the PCLake model; (2) evaluate the optimal macrophyte biomass in the growth and decay periods considering Lake Datong as the case study, and determine the macrophyte harvest time; and (3) provide a practical reference for the maintenance and management of macrophytes during the growth, harvest, and decay periods
The PCLake model could accurately simulate the dynamic changes in nutrients in Lake Datong under scenarios with different levels of nutrient loads
Summary
The restoration of macrophytes is an important link in the management and ecological restoration of eutrophic shallow lakes [1]. Macrophytes, as primary producers, are an important component of shallow lake ecosystems. They are one of the dominant factors affecting the structure of a lake ecosystem [3]. They occupy the key interface of lake ecosystems, greatly influencing water quality. They affect the composition and distribution of fish, plankton, and benthic animals in lakes, but can eliminate waves and improve water quality [3,4,5]; they have an important impact on lake productivity and biogeochemical cycles [6]. The stable states in shallow lakes can be transformed from the turbid phytoplankton state to the clear macrophyte state [19,20,21], achieving water purification and water ecosystem restoration
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