CyCLeS: Cycling of Carbon in Lake Superior
We are assessing how the physical circulation of Lakes Superior and Michigan modifies its basic ecology, nutrient cycling, and air-water carbon fluxes. This is a basic research project that is enhancing our understanding of this enormous resource. Physical circulation sets the stage upon which ecology acts. This project is developing a framework within which we can develop a detailed understanding of ecological energy cycling in the Great Lakes, and thus improve understanding of how this impacts the resources that many people depend upon. For example, we have evaluated impacts of recent warming temperatures on invasive sea lamprey and its fisheries implications in Superior and quagga mussels in Michigan.
Outcomes
We have determined a link between the rapid warming of Lake Superior in recent decades and the observed increase in the size and deadliness of the invasive sea lamprey on economically important fish. In Lake Michigan, we are evaluating potential ecological impacts from reducing quagga mussel populations.
Focus Areas
Project Leader
Galen McKinley
Associate Professor
- Department/Unit
- Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and Center for Climatic Research
- School or College
- College of Letters & Science