Abstract: | A hydrochemical investigation was carried out in spring, summer, and autumn, in the years 1991–1994, in three dystrophic lakes of the Wigry National Park (NE Poland). In spite of the fertile catchment basin, the developing ombrofile peat bogs of lake environment results in the acidification of lakes, the presence of small concentrations of dissolved mineral substances (below 50 mg L–1), and exceptionally high DOC concentrations, exceeding 10 mg L–1 C. During summer, a strong thermic stratification develops in the lakes, with constant conditions of oxygen deficiency prevailing below 3 m. In the course of the spring and autumn mixing of dystrophic lakes, the deterioration of oxygen conditions occurs in the epilimnion. In spite of high TP and NH4+ concentrations, which increase from spring to autumn, the conditions developing in the lakes are unfavourable, for the functioning of aquatic organisms, on account of the strong shading. The increased direct irradiation of water bodies caused by deforestation or favourable atmospheric conditions results in an increased trophy of lakes. |