Lake Classification

	Oligotrophic Refers to a class of lakes that exhibit low productivity, low levels of phosphorus and chlorophyll, few rooted aquatic plants and algae, deep transparency readings [ 8.0 m (26.5 ft) or greater] and usually high dissolved oxygen levels throughout the water column. These lakes are considered to have excellent water quality.
	Mesotrophic The term mesotrophic describes a middle stage between oligotrophic (low productivity) and eutrophic (very productive). This type of lake has intermediate levels of phosphorus and chlorophyll, and Secchi disk transparencies of 4m to 8m (13.3 to 26.5 ft.).
	Eutrophic Refers to lakes with high productivity, high levels of phosphorus and chlorophyll, low Secchi disk readings, and abundant biomass with a lot of accumulated organic matter on the bottom. Eutrophic lakes are susceptible to algal blooms and oxygen depletion in the hypolimnion.
Illustrations by Chris Whalen Courtesy of UWEX Extension and the Wisconsin Lakes Program

PEARL Home l  Chlorophyll A  l  Color  l  Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC)
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)  l  Lake Classification  l  Mercury  l  pH  l  Phosphorus  l  Secchi Disk

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