Effects of aerobic and anaerobic conditions on P, N, Fe, Mn, and Hg accumulation in waters overlaying profundal sediments of an oligo-mesotrophic lake.

Concentrations of key nutrients and metals in water overlaying profundal sediments were evaluated in replicate experimental chambers containing undisturbed sediment-water interface samples from Deer Lake, an oligo-mesotrophic lake in eastern Washington. Chambers were incubated under three sequential phases: aerobic (21d), anaerobic (27d), and second aerobic (14d). In general, nutrients and metals in chamber water were lower under aerobic versus anaerobic conditions.