Effects of carbon limitation and carbon fertilization on karst lake-reservoir productivity

Abstract

Nitrogen and phosphorus are universally recognized as limiting elements in the eutrophication processes affecting the majority of the world's lakes, reservoirs, and coastal ecosystems. However, despite extensive research spanning several decades, critical questions in eutrophication science remain unanswered. For example, there is still much to understand about the interactions between carbon limitation and ecosystem stability, and the availability of carbon components adds significant complexity to aquatic resource management. Mounting evidence suggests that aqueous CO₂ could be a limiting factor, influencing the structure and succession of aquatic plant communities, especially in karstic lake and reservoir ecosystems. Moreover, the fertilization effect of aqueous CO₂ has the potential to enhance carbon sequestration and phosphorus removal. Therefore, it is important to address these uncertainties to achieve multiple positive outcomes, including improved water quality and increased carbon sinks in karst lakes and reservoirs.