Which type of lake typically has high levels of nutrients?

Eutrophic lakes are characterized by high levels of nutrients, particularly phosphorous and nitrogen, which lead to their rich biological productivity. This nutrient abundance supports densely populated plant and algae growth, resulting in a vibrant ecosystem. However, the excessive nutrients in eutrophic lakes can sometimes lead to problems such as algal blooms, which can deplete oxygen levels in the water and harm aquatic life when they die and decompose.

In contrast, oligotrophic lakes have low nutrient levels and consequently lower biological productivity. They are often clearer, with more oxygen available throughout the water column. Mesotrophic lakes fall in between oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes, possessing moderate nutrient levels. The hypolimnetic layer refers to the deeper water in stratified lakes and is not a lake type itself but rather a specific zone within a lake, which can have varying nutrient levels depending on the overall lake classification.