In the last 40 years, most of the planet’s lakes have undergone a change in color. According to a study published Wednesday in the journal Water Resources Research with the analysis of 67,000 of them.
Only 14 percent of the lakes tested maintained a stable color over time. In contrast, 60 percent showed significant changes in hue. Suggesting alterations in water quality, algal blooms, and the flow of dissolved organic matter.
These changes are related to factors such as global warming and human action. Suggests the research, which analyzed 32 million satellite observations of more than 67,000 lakes around the world.
Lakes play a critical role in the Earth’s ecological balance. They provide habitats for various aquatic and terrestrial species. They also influence climate, regulate humidity and are essential for drinking water supply and agriculture.
However, the color of water is a key indicator of its ecological status. As it reflects biochemical and physical processes within it.
Most lakes have evolved towards shorter wavelengths in the last 40 years. They have acquired more bluish tones.
“Our results demonstrate a strong correlation between changes in lake color and the impact of climate change and human activity,” said Zheng Duan. A physical geography researcher at Lund University and lead author of the study.
Lakes can take on different colors depending on their geographical location. While blue-hued lakes predominate in northern latitudes. Green lakes are more common in densely populated mid-latitude regions, such as southern Europe.
Reddish and yellowish lakes are mainly found in the Southern Hemisphere.
For the authors, understanding these changes is crucial for sustainable water management and environmental conservation. The information obtained can be used by communities and policymakers to make informed decisions about the protection of lakes and their environment.
With information from Prensa Latina / Translated by Radio Angulo
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