Total phosphorus and organic matter content in bottom sediments of lake under restoration measures with iron treatment

Total phosphorus and organic matter content in bottom sediments of lake under restoration measures with iron treatment Rusałka Lake is a shallow, man-made, strongly eutrophicated reservoir, being a place of recreational activities for Poznan citizens. Restoration measures with the use of iron sulphate were conducted in years 2006-2007. Phosphorus and organic matter concentrations in lake sediments were analyzed in years 2005-2007 at two research stations (profundal and littoral) to determine its changes under the influence of restoration. Greater phosphorus concentrations were noted in profundal (max 1.55 mg P g-1 dry weight (DW)) than in littoral (max 0.98 mg P g-1 DW). An increase of P amount in sediment was observed after iron treatment. Among phosphorus fractions Res-P dominated, i.e. phosphorus biologically unavailable for organisms. Organic matter content reached 23.1% in profundal, while 14.8% in littoral. Its amount decreased in following years.