Research Progress on the Occurrence, Adsorption, and Release of Phosphorus in the Sediments of Dianchi Lake and Prospects for Its Control

Phosphorus plays a key role in water eutrophication. The release of endogenous phosphorus from sediments maintains eutrophication in Dianchi Lake. This study aimed to summarize and analyze the research trends, occurrence characteristics, adsorption and release characteristics, influencing factors, and prospects of internal phosphorus pollution control in Dianchi Lake based on a literature search and data integration. The results revealed that sediment phosphorus in Dianchi Lake has been widely studied. From previous studies, the total phosphorus (TP) content and various forms of phosphorus in the Dianchi Lake sediments have decreased since 2010. The TP contents measured in Dianchi Lake in previous research were considerably different owing to the influence of sampling depth and dredging projects. The TP content in the sediments of Dianchi Lake was higher but its release risk was lower than those in other lakes in China. The risk of release was higher in Caohai and North Waihai than that in Central Waihai and South Waihai. In addition to environmental factors at the sediment–water interface, sediment characteristics, and ecosystem degradation are important factors that affect phosphorus migration and transformation. Over the past 30 years, sediment dredging has been the primary measure for reducing the internal pollution load in Dianchi Lake. However, more accurate sediment dredging and systematic vegetation–algae–sediment co-management measures are needed for water ecosystem restoration in Dianchi Lake. This study provides new insights into the study of internal phosphorus pollution.