So you’ve always been curious about the fascinating creatures that call lakes their home? Look no further than “What Animals Live in Lakes.” This comprehensive guide provides a delightful exploration of the diverse ecosystems found in lakes and the wide variety of animals that inhabit them. From graceful swans gracefully gliding across the water to mysterious underwater creatures lurking beneath the surface, this product is your ticket to unlocking the secrets of the enchanting world of lake-dwelling animals. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or simply looking to expand your knowledge, “What Animals Live in Lakes” promises to deliver an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
Fish Species in Lakes
Lakes are rich ecosystems that support a wide variety of fish species. These freshwater habitats provide the perfect conditions for fish to thrive and adapt to their surroundings. With their unique adaptations, fish are able to navigate the depths of lakes, search for food, and reproduce successfully.
Freshwater Fish Adaptations
Fish have evolved certain adaptations that allow them to survive in lakes. One common adaptation is the presence of gills, which enable fish to extract oxygen from the water. This allows them to breathe even without access to air, unlike mammals or reptiles. Additionally, fish have streamlined bodies and fins that help them swim efficiently through the water, reducing drag and conserving energy.
Some fish species have developed specialized jaws and teeth for feeding. For example, predatory fish like pike or bass have sharp teeth and powerful jaws that allow them to capture and devour their prey. On the other hand, herbivorous fish such as carp have specialized teeth for grazing on aquatic plants.
Common Lake Fish Species
Lakes around the world are home to a wide range of fish species. In North America, popular lake fish include bass, trout, walleye, and catfish. These fish are often sought after by anglers who enjoy fishing as a recreational activity. In Europe, species such as perch, pike, and roach are commonly found in lakes. Each of these fish species has unique characteristics and play an important role in the lake ecosystem.
Fish species can have different diet preferences and contribute to the balance of the lake’s food web. Some fish feed on smaller organisms, such as insects or plankton, while others are top predators that regulate the populations of smaller fish. This intricate web of interactions among fish species is crucial for maintaining a healthy and diverse lake ecosystem.
Ecological Significance of Fish in Lakes
Fish play a vital role in the ecology of lakes. They are not only a source of food for other animals, including humans, but they also help to control populations of smaller organisms. Fish feed on insects and other invertebrates, helping to regulate their abundance and prevent outbreaks of pests. Additionally, fish contribute to the nutrient cycling in lakes through their excretion and feeding habits.
Furthermore, fish populations can serve as indicators of the overall health of a lake ecosystem. Changes in fish populations can indicate environmental stressors, such as pollution or habitat degradation. Therefore, monitoring fish populations is an essential part of lake management and conservation efforts. Understanding the ecological significance of fish in lakes is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of these freshwater habitats.
Amphibians Abode Lakes
Amphibians, including frogs, toads, and salamanders, are known for their ability to live both on land and in water. These fascinating creatures are often found in and around lakes, where they rely on the abundant water sources for their survival.
Overview of Amphibians
Amphibians are cold-blooded vertebrates that are uniquely adapted for life in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. They have moist, permeable skin that allows for the exchange of gases and water absorption. This characteristic is particularly important for amphibians that live in lakes, as it enables them to absorb oxygen directly from the water.
Amphibians undergo a remarkable metamorphosis as they transition from aquatic larvae to terrestrial adults. They start their lives as eggs laid in the water, which hatch into tadpoles that live exclusively in the water. As they develop, amphibians undergo physiological and anatomical changes that enable them to thrive on land. This dual life cycle allows them to take advantage of the resources offered by lakes and their surrounding habitats.
Amphibians Commonly Found in Lakes
Many amphibian species can be found in and around lakes. Frogs and toads are often spotted near the water’s edge, while salamanders may inhabit the lake’s surrounding forests and moist areas. In North America, species such as the bullfrog, green frog, and American toad are commonly found near lakeshores. These amphibians rely on the lakes for breeding and feeding opportunities.
Amphibians play a crucial role in lake ecosystems, acting as both predators and prey. They provide a food source for larger animals, such as fish and reptiles, while preying on smaller organisms like insects and invertebrates. Additionally, amphibians serve as indicators of environmental health, as their sensitive skin makes them highly susceptible to pollution and habitat degradation. Monitoring amphibian populations can help identify threats to the overall health of the lake ecosystem.
Role of Amphibians in Lake Ecosystems
Amphibians contribute to the ecological balance of lakes in various ways. Firstly, they control insect populations by preying on mosquito larvae and other aquatic invertebrates. This helps to prevent outbreaks of pests and maintain the delicate balance of the lake’s food web.
Additionally, some species of amphibians, such as frogs, are known for their distinctive calls during mating season. These vocalizations serve as a form of communication, attracting mates and establishing territories. The chorus of amphibian calls during the breeding season is a familiar sound in many lakeside environments.
Furthermore, amphibians, particularly tadpoles, play a role in nutrient cycling within lakes. As they feed on organic matter and algae, they help to regulate the nutrient levels in the water. This process is important for maintaining water quality and supporting the growth of other aquatic organisms.
Overall, amphibians are not only fascinating creatures, but they also play an important role in the health and balance of lake ecosystems. Their presence in and around lakes enriches these habitats and contributes to their biodiversity and ecological stability.
Aquatic Insects in Lakes
Aquatic insects are a diverse group of invertebrates that inhabit freshwater environments, including lakes. Despite their small size, these insects play a crucial role in lake ecosystems and are an essential component of the aquatic food chain.
Diversity of Aquatic Insects
Lakes support a wide variety of insect species, each with its own unique adaptations for life in the water. Aquatic insects belong to different taxonomic groups, including beetles, flies, mosquitoes, and dragonflies. Some insects, such as water striders, have adapted to life on the water’s surface, while others, like mayflies, spend their larval stages at the bottom of the lake.
One of the most diverse groups of aquatic insects is the order Diptera, which includes mosquitoes, midges, and black flies. These insects have a complete life cycle that consists of an aquatic larval stage, a pupal stage, and an adult stage. Their abundance in lakes makes them an important food source for many fish species and birds.
Life Cycle of Lake Insects
The life cycle of aquatic insects typically begins in the water, where eggs are laid. Depending on the species, eggs may hatch into larvae, nymphs, or other specialized immature stages. These aquatic stages allow the insects to feed and grow in the lake habitat.
As the insects mature, they undergo metamorphosis and transition into their adult forms. This usually occurs outside of the water, where adult insects emerge and take flight. The adult insects are often the reproductive stage and play a crucial role in pollination and dispersal of plant species.
Importance of Insects in Aquatic Food Chains
Aquatic insects form an integral part of the food chain in lakes. They serve as a primary food source for many fish species, including trout and bass. In turn, these fish become prey for larger predator species, such as birds and mammals.
Insects also play a significant role in nutrient cycling within lake ecosystems. This is especially true for species like caddisflies and mayflies, whose larvae consume organic matter and algae. As they feed, they break down decaying material and release nutrients back into the water, promoting the growth of other organisms. This process helps to maintain the overall health and productivity of the lake.
Additionally, some aquatic insects, such as dragonflies, serve as natural predators, feeding on smaller insect species. Their presence in lakes helps to control populations of pests, such as mosquitoes, and contributes to the balance of the ecosystem.
In conclusion, the diversity and ecological significance of aquatic insects in lakes cannot be understated. These small invertebrates play a vital role in nutrient cycling, as well as providing a critical food source for many fish and bird species. Understanding the role of insects in aquatic ecosystems is essential for the conservation and management of lake habitats.
Reptiles Living in Lakes
Lakes provide a suitable habitat for various species of reptiles, including turtles, snakes, and lizards. These ectothermic creatures rely on the water and surrounding environment for hunting, basking, and reproduction.
Types of Lake-dwelling Reptiles
Turtles are a common reptile group found in lakes around the world. They are semi-aquatic, spending a significant part of their lives in water. Turtles have streamlined shells and webbed feet, which allow them to move effortlessly through the water. Some species, like the snapping turtle, can grow to impressive sizes and are among the top predators in lake ecosystems.
Snakes, particularly water snakes, are another group of reptiles that can be found in and around lakes. Water snakes are highly adapted to the aquatic environment, with specialized scales that aid in swimming. They feed on fish and amphibians, and their presence in lakes helps to regulate populations of these prey species.
Lizards, although less common in lake habitats, can also be found in certain regions. Some species, like the water dragon, have developed adaptations for swimming and have been observed near lakes and other bodies of water.
Typical Reptile Behaviors in Lakes
Reptiles display a range of behaviors within lake ecosystems. Turtles, for example, are known to bask on logs or rocks near the water’s edge, using the sun to regulate their body temperature. Basking is essential for reptiles, as it helps them maintain their metabolic activity and overall health.
For turtles and snakes, lakes provide a valuable hunting ground. Many reptiles are opportunistic predators, feeding on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates found in the water. They use their specialized jaws and teeth to capture and consume their prey.
Reproduction is another significant aspect of reptile behavior. Some turtle species, like the painted turtle, lay their eggs in sandy areas near the shore. The warm temperatures and protection of the lake environment are crucial for successful egg incubation and the survival of hatchlings.
Threats to Reptiles in Lakes
Reptiles face a range of threats in lake habitats, with the most significant being loss and degradation of their natural habitats. Human activities, such as urbanization, agriculture, and pollution, can disrupt the delicate balance of lake ecosystems and negatively impact reptile populations. Destruction of nesting areas, pollution of the water, and direct harm from human interactions pose significant challenges to the survival and conservation of lake-dwelling reptiles.
Furthermore, invasive species can also pose a threat to reptile populations. For example, the introduction of non-native predators, such as certain fish species, can disrupt the natural predation patterns and lead to a decline in reptile populations.
Conservation efforts that focus on preserving and restoring lake habitats are essential for protecting reptiles and maintaining biodiversity. By mitigating human impacts and implementing sustainable practices, we can ensure that reptiles continue to thrive in these unique and valuable ecosystems.
Lake-dwelling Birds
The presence of lakes attracts a diverse array of bird species, turning these bodies of water into vibrant and dynamic habitats. From waterfowl and wading birds to migratory species, the avian community around lakes is a sight to behold.
Birds Commonly Spotted around Lakes
Lakes provide a rich food source and habitat for numerous bird species. Waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, are some of the most common birds found around lakes. They are well-adapted to aquatic environments, with webbed feet for swimming and specialized bills for foraging on aquatic vegetation. These waterfowl species often form large flocks and can be seen gracefully gliding across the water or waddling along the shores.
Wading birds, including herons, egrets, and ibises, are also frequently sighted around lakes. These long-legged birds use their sharp beaks to spear fish and other small aquatic prey. Their distinctive silhouettes and elegant movements make them a captivating sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Smaller bird species, such as sparrows, warblers, and finches, can also be found in the lakeside habitats. These birds may utilize the lake for drinking, bathing, and finding insects. Their presence adds diversity to the avian community around lakes and contributes to the overall ecological balance.
Migration Patterns of Lake Birds
Many bird species that frequent lakes are migratory, traveling vast distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. Lakes serve as crucial stopover points for these migrating birds, providing them with rest and refueling opportunities.
During migration, large flocks of birds can be observed around lakes as they congregate to replenish their energy reserves. These gatherings create spectacular displays as birds form intricate formations in the sky or rest along the water’s edge. Observing these migratory birds in their temporary lakeside habitats is an exhilarating experience and a testament to the wonders of avian migration.
Avian Contribution to Lake Ecosystems
Birds have a significant impact on lake ecosystems and contribute to their overall health and functioning. One of the most notable contributions is through the dispersal of seeds. Many bird species consume fruits and berries and subsequently distribute the seeds through their droppings. This helps to maintain the diversity of plant species around lakes and promotes the regeneration of vegetation.
Additionally, birds play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. Insectivorous bird species, such as swallows and flycatchers, rely on lakes for their food supply. By feeding on insects, birds help to regulate their populations, preventing outbreaks that could negatively impact the lake ecosystem.
Furthermore, the presence of birds creates a dynamic and interconnected web of interactions within the lake habitat. Birds that feed on fish or invertebrates contribute to the regulation of these populations. Their activities and behaviors, such as nesting and mating displays, can also influence the behavior and ecology of other lake-dwelling creatures.
In conclusion, the bird species that inhabit lakes are not only a sight to behold but also important contributors to the ecological balance of these habitats. Their diverse behaviors, feeding habits, and role in seed dispersal make them integral components of lake ecosystems. Preserving and protecting the habitats of lake-dwelling birds is essential for maintaining the intricate ecological connections and the overall health of the lakes they call home.
Mammals Inhabiting Lakes
Lakes provide important resources and habitats for various mammal species, offering sustenance, water, and refuge. From beavers constructing intricate dams to otters gracefully diving into the water, mammals bring a unique charm to these freshwater environments.
Overview of Lake Mammal Species
There are several mammal species that commonly make lakes their home. Semi-aquatic mammals, such as beavers and muskrats, are well-known for their ability to transform lake habitats. Beavers are particularly remarkable, constructing elaborate dams that create ponds where they build their lodges. These structures not only serve as shelter but also influence the hydrology and ecology of the lake, creating diverse habitats for other organisms.
Another mammal commonly associated with lakes is the otter. Otters are expert swimmers and can be found in both freshwater and marine habitats. Lakes provide an abundant food source for otters, as they prey on fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures. Their playful and agile behavior makes them a delight to observe.
Other mammals, such as deer, may visit lakes to access drinking water or graze on lakeside vegetation. These majestic animals contribute to the ecological balance of lake habitats and add to the overall richness and biodiversity of the area.
Lake Mammal Survival Strategies
Mammals that inhabit lakes have developed various strategies to survive in these aquatic environments. For semi-aquatic species like beavers and muskrats, construction skills are critical for building their homes and shaping their surroundings. Beavers build dams to create ponds, ensuring a constant water supply and protection from predators. Muskrats construct burrows along the shores, providing them with secure shelter and easy access to the water.
Swimming abilities are also essential for lake-dwelling mammals. Otters, for example, have streamlined bodies, webbed feet, and a thick layer of insulating fur that allows them to move efficiently through the water. These adaptations enable otters to hunt effectively and find refuge when needed.
Additionally, some mammals that visit lakes have developed a keen sense of smell to detect water sources and locate food. The ability to locate freshwater is especially crucial for animals living in arid regions where water may be scarce.
Human Interaction and Impact on Lake Mammals
Human activities can significantly impact the lives and habitats of lake-dwelling mammals. Urban development and pollution can encroach upon the lakes and disrupt the natural balance. This can lead to the degradation or loss of crucial habitats, reducing the availability of resources for mammals.
Overfishing, pollution, and changes in water quality can also affect the food sources and behaviors of lake mammals. For example, excessive fishing can deplete fish populations, affecting the food supply for otters and other fish-eating mammals. Pollution, such as the runoff of chemicals or oil spills, can contaminate the water and threaten the overall health of mammal populations.
Conservation efforts focused on preserving lake ecosystems seek to minimize human impacts and ensure the survival of lake-dwelling mammals. By maintaining water quality, protecting habitats, and implementing sustainable practices, we can help secure the future of these remarkable creatures and their unique interactions within lake environments.
Crustaceans of the Lake
Lakes are home to a diverse array of crustaceans, including crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. While some crustaceans inhabit saltwater environments, many species have adapted to freshwater habitats, such as lakes, where they play important ecological roles.
Common Lake Crustaceans
Various species of crustaceans live in lakes, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological balance of these habitats. Crayfish, also known as freshwater lobsters, are one of the most recognizable crustaceans found in lakes. These small, lobster-like creatures are highly adaptable and can be found in both running and still water habitats.
Another common crustacean found in lakes is the water flea, a small planktonic organism that belongs to the family Daphniidae. Water fleas are an essential part of the lake’s food web, serving as prey for various fish species.
Crustaceans like amphipods and copepods are also present in lakes. These tiny organisms play important roles in nutrient cycling and provide food for larger organisms, such as fish and birds.
Crustacean Life Cycle and Behavior
Crustaceans display a variety of life cycle patterns, but many share a similar general progression. Most crustaceans undergo metamorphosis, transitioning from eggs to larvae, and finally to adults.
For example, crayfish begin their lives as eggs attached to the female’s abdomen. Once hatched, the larvae go through several molts, shedding their exoskeletons and developing into juvenile crayfish. As they mature, they undergo further molts until reaching their adult form.
The behavior of crustaceans in lakes varies depending on the species. Surface-dwelling crustaceans, like water fleas, engage in vertical migrations within the water column, moving to deeper areas during the day to avoid predators and returning to the surface at night to feed. Bottom-dwelling crustaceans, such as crayfish, burrow into sediment or build burrows to protect themselves and provide shelter.
Economic Importance of Lake Crustaceans
Lake crustaceans can have economic significance due to their use as a food source or in commercial fishing. Crayfish, for example, are harvested for consumption in many regions worldwide. In some areas, they are considered a delicacy and are an important component of culinary traditions.
Additionally, crustaceans like copepods and amphipods are commercially harvested as live bait for anglers. Their availability and abundance in lakes make them a popular choice among fishermen.
Moreover, crustaceans play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within lakes. They consume organic material and algae, aiding in the breakdown of decaying matter and the release of nutrients back into the water. This process enhances the overall health and productivity of the lake ecosystem.
In conclusion, the diverse crustacean species found in lakes contribute to the intricate ecological balance of these freshwater habitats. Understanding their life cycles, behaviors, and economic importance is fundamental to the management and conservation of lake ecosystems.
Lake Jellyfish and Other Cnidarians
While jellyfish are commonly associated with the ocean, freshwater lakes can also be home to certain species of jellyfish and other cnidarians. These fascinating organisms have unique life cycles and behaviors that contribute to the complexity of lake ecosystems.
Species of Freshwater Jellyfish
Freshwater lakes are inhabited by specific species of jellyfish, also known as hydrozoans. One notable example is the Craspedacusta sowerbyi jellyfish, commonly referred to as the freshwater jellyfish. These jellyfish have a transparent, bell-shaped body and tentacles armed with stinging cells called nematocysts.
The freshwater jellyfish is native to Asia but has spread to other regions, including North America, Europe, and Australia. Despite their small size, these jellyfish can disrupt the balance of the lake ecosystem by outcompeting native species for food and other resources.
Life Cycle and Behavior of Lake Jellyfish
The life cycle of freshwater jellyfish is complex and consists of both asexual and sexual reproduction phases. In the asexual phase, the jellyfish reproduces by budding, where new individuals develop as small, attached polyps. Eventually, the polyps develop into free-swimming medusae, the adult jellyfish form.
During the sexual reproduction phase, male and female jellyfish release sperm and eggs into the water. Fertilization occurs externally, leading to the development of planula larvae. These larvae settle on the lakebed and metamorphose into polyps, continuing the life cycle.
Freshwater jellyfish are most commonly observed in lakes during their medusa stage. They move through the water using pulsations of their bell-shaped body and hunt plankton and small invertebrates using their tentacles. Even though they are harmless to humans, their presence can provide a unique window into the delicate balance and interactions within lake ecosystems.
Role of Cnidarians in Lake Ecosystems
Cnidarians, including jellyfish and their relatives, have important ecological roles in lake ecosystems. As predators, jellyfish consume plankton and other small organisms, impacting the abundance and distribution of these prey species. Their feeding activities contribute to the balance of the lake’s food web, influencing the populations of other organisms.
Furthermore, cnidarians are an essential part of nutrient cycling in lakes. After consuming their prey, they excrete waste rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. These waste products contribute to the nutrient availability in the water, supporting the growth of algae and other primary producers.
However, the introduction of non-native cnidarian species, such as freshwater jellyfish, can disturb the natural balance of lake ecosystems. These invasive species often lack natural predators and can proliferate rapidly, leading to significant disruptions in the food web and ecology of the lake. Understanding the impacts of cnidarian populations in lakes and implementing effective management strategies is essential for maintaining the health and stability of these vital habitats.
Lakes as Habitats for Mollusks
Lakes provide diverse habitats for various mollusk species, including snails, clams, and mussels. These fascinating organisms play essential roles in lake ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and supporting the overall health of these freshwater habitats.
Types of Mollusks Found in Lakes
Lakes host a wide variety of mollusk species, each with its own unique adaptations for life in the water. Snails are a common sight around lakes, both in aquatic and terrestrial environments. Many snail species have gills or lungs that allow them to respire in water or air, depending on their habitat.
Bivalves, such as clams and mussels, are also frequent inhabitants of lakes. These mollusks have two hinged shells that protect their soft bodies and enable them to filter feed on algae and other organic matter. By clearing the water of excess nutrients, bivalves contribute to the clarity and health of the lake.
Mollusks play various ecological roles in lakes, such as acting as indicators of water quality and providing food for other organisms. Additionally, some mollusks, like certain species of snails, serve as intermediate hosts for parasites, contributing to the complex interactions within the lake ecosystem.
Importance of Mollusks in Aquatic Ecosystems
Mollusks are integral components of lake ecosystems, with significant ecological contributions. Their feeding activities help to control algae growth and maintain water clarity. Bivalves, in particular, play a vital role in the nutrient cycling process. As they filter-feed on algae and organic matter, they sequester nutrients and convert them into biomass. When mollusks die or are consumed by other organisms, these nutrients are released back into the water, facilitating the growth of other aquatic organisms.
Mollusks also serve as an important food source for many animals, including fish, birds, and mammals. Their shells provide calcium-rich material for breeding birds and reptiles. Additionally, some mollusks, like freshwater mussels, serve as hosts for fish larvae, encouraging the dispersal and colonization of fish populations in lakes.
Unfortunately, the populations of many mollusk species in lakes are declining due to habitat loss, pollution, and invasive species. The preservation and restoration of lake habitats are crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and ecological balance that mollusks contribute to.
Microscopic Life in Lakes
Microscopic life forms, such as plankton and other microorganisms, are integral components of lake ecosystems. Despite their small size, these tiny organisms play essential roles in nutrient cycling, primary production, and overall ecosystem functioning.
Plankton Diversity in Lake Ecosystems
Plankton refers to a diverse group of microscopic organisms that inhabit lakes and other bodies of water. It includes two main categories: phytoplankton and zooplankton. Phytoplankton consists of tiny plants, such as algae and cyanobacteria, which perform photosynthesis and serve as the primary producers in lakes, converting sunlight and nutrients into organic matter.
Zooplankton, on the other hand, are microscopic animals that feed on phytoplankton or other zooplankton. They occupy various trophic levels and serve as an important food source for higher organisms, including fish and larger invertebrates.
The diversity of plankton species in lakes is staggering, with each organism playing a unique role in the ecosystem. Some species bloom during certain times of the year, causing visible discoloration of the water. These blooms can have significant ecological and economic impacts on lakes, affecting water quality and disrupting the balance of the food web.
Role of Microorganisms in Nutrient Cycles
Microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea, are crucial for nutrient cycling in lake ecosystems. They decompose organic matter, breaking it down into simpler compounds and releasing nutrients back into the water. This process, known as mineralization, allows the nutrients to be reused by other organisms, supporting the growth of primary producers and higher trophic levels.
Additionally, some microorganisms form symbiotic relationships with plants, such as cyanobacteria and certain algae. These microbes fix atmospheric nitrogen and convert it into a plant-usable form, contributing to the nitrogen cycle and facilitating the growth of other organisms.
Microorganisms also play a role in oxygen production through photosynthesis. Photosynthetic bacteria and algae produce oxygen as a byproduct, enriching the water with this vital gas and supporting the survival of other aquatic organisms.
Impact of Changing Lake Conditions on Microscopic Organisms
Microscopic organisms in lakes are highly sensitive to changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature, nutrient availability, and water quality. Pollution, eutrophication, and climate change can disrupt the delicate balance of lake ecosystems, leading to shifts in plankton community structure and abundance.
For example, excessive nutrient inputs from fertilizer runoff or wastewater discharge can cause harmful algal blooms, leading to oxygen depletion and the release of toxins. These events can have detrimental effects on fish populations and other aquatic organisms.
Climate change can also impact lakes and their microscopic communities. Rising temperatures can alter the timing and duration of plankton blooms, affecting the availability of food for higher trophic levels. Changes in precipitation patterns and increased nutrient runoff can further exacerbate these effects, leading to the deterioration of lake ecosystems.
Understanding the dynamics of microscopic life in lakes and the factors that influence their abundance and distribution is crucial for managing and conserving these valuable freshwater environments. By monitoring and preserving the quality of lake waters and implementing sustainable practices, we can ensure the continued survival and functioning of lakes as habitats for microorganisms.
