"Warming Threatens Ancient Ecosystem of Lake Baikal"
Lake Baikal, the world's oldest and deepest freshwater lake, is facing a regime shift due to global warming, with warming temperatures and shrinking ice duration affecting its unique ecosystem. Comprehensive analyses show increases in algal mass and zooplankton numbers, while cold-loving organisms are declining. Changes in nutrient cycling and algae productivity are also observed, with potential broad ecological consequences. The lake's ancient and biodiverse ecosystem, including its unique fauna and methane-fueled communities, is at risk, highlighting the direct and indirect effects of global warming on this remarkable natural environment.
