An ecological response index for simultaneous prediction of eutrophication and metal pollution in Domat Al-Gandal lake, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Man-made lakes are landscape modifications that can help the ecology. Artificial lakes may support several ecosystems. New plants and animals alter ecosystems. Humans constructed Domat Al-Gandal Lake which is located between 29°49'12. 08N and 29°48'23.54N and 39°54'9.33E and 39°54'57.19E in northern Saudi Arabia. Eutrophication affects the water quality in many lakes worldwide by encouraging the growth of planktonic algae. Natural and man-made sources add heavy metals to lakes .Most heavy metals are low in concentrations. Summer temperatures reached 28.9 °C and winter temperatures 10.8 °C. Maximum turbidity occurred in winter (5.53 NTU) and minimum in autumn (4.15 NTU). The regional transparency averaged 2.48 m. Autumn and spring pH was 7.60 to 8.28, respectively. Total phosphorus ranged from 101.48 to 88.85 µg/L. Regional heavy metal averages fluctuated little. Four phytoplankton communities groups were identified. Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, and Dinophyceae. Seasonal changes in phytoplankton populations were narrow. Chlorophyta and Cyanophyta had the highest-standing crops. Maximum phytoplankton density was in the north (84.045 X 10 3 Cell/L) and the south (71.370 X 10 3 Cell/L). This research examined the numerous approaches used to evaluate lake water quality and eutrophication, showed, and analyzed eutrophication sources, nutrient transformations, and eutrophication mechanisms, and proposed complete management options for watershed development.due to the human factor. Therefore, more environmental studies must be done, including abiotic and biotic factors are required.3. The lake is considered one of the critical routes for bird migration, which impacts the lake.4. Further studies on the estimation of heavy elements in water and sediments, as well as the organisms that live in the waters of Domat Al-Gandal lake.Further laboratory studies on the effect of heavy metals on some types of algae isolated from Domat Al-Gandal lake.