A review of basic ecological processes interacting with production and standing-stock of phytoplankton in lakes and reservoirs in Brazil

The author discusses the interactions of the main forcing functions in shallow lakes and reservoirs in Brazil with the functioning of the phytoplankton community from the point of view of primary production and standing-stock. Forcing functions were water level fluctuation, destratification and mixing, wind action and precipitation. One of the major factors controlling variations in productivity and nutrient availability, diurnal variations of environmental factors, is also discussed. Its role in microstratification and replenishment of nutrients to the euphotic zone in shallow lakes is stressed. Major processes in reservoirs are related to residence time, ‘hydraulic stratification’, sediment-water interaction, and cultural eutrophication. Perspectives for future limnological research by a process-orientated approach are given.