Ecological Assessment of Lake Alakol’s Coastal Waters using Algae-Based Indicators

Inelova, Zarina and Akmukhanova, Nurziya and Zayadan, Bolatkha and Matorin, Dmitry and Boros, Emil and István, Grigorszky and Aliya, Aktymbayeva and Sotnikov, Evgeny and Yerubayeva, Gulzhan and Satybaldiyeva, Gulmira (2026) Ecological Assessment of Lake Alakol’s Coastal Waters using Algae-Based Indicators. ES ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT, 31. No. 2125. ISSN 2578-0646

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Abstract

This study explores the ecological importance of microalgae in aquatic ecosystems, with particular emphasis on their function as indicators in water quality assessment. An analysis of the algal flora of Lake Alakol revealed the dominance of indifferent species alongside a substantial proportion of mesosaprobic taxa, suggesting a moderately polluted condition of the lake. Phytoplankton communities exhibited adaptive responses to fluctuating environmental factors, while functional group analysis provided key insights into the ecological dynamics of the system. In addition, the study highlights the application of fluorescence-based techniques as innovative tools for water quality monitoring and bioassays. The ecological drivers shaping algal community structure underscore the necessity of continuous ecological evaluation. The main findings of the study can be summarized as follows: (i) the algal flora was dominated by indifferent species, with mesosaprobic forms indicating moderate pollution; (ii) phytoplankton displayed clear adaptive responses to changing environmental conditions; (iii) functional group analysis offered valuable information on ecosystem dynamics; (iv) fluorescence-based monitoring methods proved effective as innovative bioassay tools; and (v) continuous ecological assessments are essential to track and understand algal community shifts. Overall, the findings reinforce the pivotal role of microalgae as bioindicators and stress the importance of further research to guide conservation measures and promote the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

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