Journal article

Publication year: 2010

Pages: 3333-3342

Journal: Biogeosciences

Volume number: 7

Issue number: 10

ISSN: 1726-4170

Open access status: Gold

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-7-3333-2010

Publisher: Copernicus Publications

Abstract: 
Lake Ohrid is likely of Pliocene age and thus commonly referred to as the oldest existing lake in Europe. In this study spatial variability of recent sediment composition is assessed using > 50 basin wide distributed surface sediment samples. Analysis of biogeochemical bulk parameters, selected metals, pigment concentrations as well as grain size distributions revealed a significant spatial heterogeneity in surface sediment composition. It implies that sedimentation in Lake Ohrid is controlled by an interaction of multiple natural and anthropogenic factors and processes. Major factors controlling surface sediment composition are related to differences in geological catchment characteristics, anthropogenic land use, and a counterclockwise rotating surface water current. In some instances processes controlling sediment composition also seem to impact distribution patterns of biodiversity, which suggests a common interaction of processes responsible for both patterns.

Harvard Citation style: Vogel, H., Wessels, M., Albrecht, C., Stich, H. and Wagner, B. (2010) Spatial variability of recent sedimentation in Lake Ohrid (Albania/Macedonia), Biogeosciences, 7(10), pp. 3333-3342. https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-7-3333-2010

APA Citation style: Vogel, H., Wessels, M., Albrecht, C., Stich, H., & Wagner, B. (2010). Spatial variability of recent sedimentation in Lake Ohrid (Albania/Macedonia). Biogeosciences. 7(10), 3333-3342. https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-7-3333-2010