1. Littoral Zone:
- This zone extends from the shoreline to the depth where sunlight can penetrate the water and support plant growth (approximately up to 6 meters).
- It is the most biologically diverse and productive part of the lake, often filled with aquatic plants, algae, and various organisms such as insects, fish, and amphibians.
- Sunlight availability and warmer water temperatures make it suitable for photosynthesis and diverse life forms.
2. Limnetic Zone:
- The limnetic zone is the open-water area of the lake that extends beyond the littoral zone and receives direct sunlight.
- It is typically deeper than the littoral zone and may reach the greatest depth of the lake.
- This zone is characterized by abundant planktonic organisms, such as phytoplankton (microscopic algae) and zooplankton (microscopic animals).
- It also supports pelagic fish species adapted to open-water conditions.
3. Profundal Zone:
- The profundal zone is the deepest and darkest part of the lake, where sunlight does not reach.
- It is characterized by cold temperatures and limited oxygen levels due to the absence of photosynthesis.
- Decomposition processes dominate this zone, as the remains of organisms from upper layers sink and undergo microbial breakdown.
- The profundal zone is often inhabited by organisms adapted to low-light conditions and limited food availability.