METHANE AS AN INDICATOR OF THE ECOLOGICAL STATE OF A FRESHWATER RESERVOIR (WITH A SPECIAL REFERENCE TO LAKES VALDAI AND UZHIN)

Yu. A. Fedorov, N. S. Tambieva, and D. N. Gar'kusha

Methane generation and distribution in water and bottom sediments of two freshwater lakes and in watercourses falling into them are considered. The connection of methane concentration with the content of dissolved oxygen and organic matter and its change during autumn circulation and winter and summer stagnation are studied. It is found that methane concentration together with other ingredients can serve as a sensitive indicator of reservoir processes and of the ecological state of aquatic ecosystems.