Investigations into the Deep Chlorophyll Maximum Layer of Lake Vanda, Wright Valley: How is the DCM maintained at a constant depth in spite of lake level rise?

Water samples were collected at approx 10m intervals through the water column, and after 60 m, at 2-3 m intervals, and preserved for enumeration of bacteria, picophytoplankton, flagellates, phytoplankton and microzooplankton. Photosynthetic rates of phytoplankton, the relationship between light and photosynthesis and the sinking rate of cells was determined. The toxicity of the water below the DCM was measured.

Profiles of sulphate and sulphide concentrations through the water column and sulphate reduction rates in the anoxic zone water and surficial sediment were investigated. The grazing impact of micro-zooplankton on bacteria and phytoplankton was determined and the potential toxic effects of bottom waters on zooplankton were investigated.