Dynamics of the trophic status of Lake Bienda-Stemme (West Spitsbergen)

The relevance of the study is associated with the fact that the trophic status of Lake Bienda-Stemme had not previously been studied, making it impossible to properly determine the suitability of the lake water for drinking and household purposes for residents of the village of Barentsburg. The purpose of the work is to assess the dynamics of the trophic status of Lake Bienda-Stemme (West Spitsbergen). The article examines changes in the trophic status of Lake Bienda-Stemme for the period 2002–2019. The trophic state index (TSI) was used to assess the trophic status. This index has not previously been applied to Lake Bienda-Stemme. It was established that during the indicated period the trophic status of the lake varied from ultraoligotrophic to eutrophic. On average, the TSI-based trophic status of the lake is characterized as mesotrophic. A significant positive TSI trend was identified for the period 2002–2019, indicating an increase in the trophic status of Lake Bienda-Stemme. It is advisable to apply the results of the study to make effective management decisions on reducing the anthropogenic load on the lake.