Biogeochemical responses of two alpine lakes to climate change and atmospheric deposition, Jasper and Banff National parks, Canadian Rocky Mountains

Alpine lakes in the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks exhibit distinct biogeochemical responses to climate change and atmospheric deposition, revealing varied ecological impacts over the past 500 years. Curator Lake in Jasper shows strong sensitivity to thermal stratification driven by warming, with no significant changes in reactive nitrogen (Nr) cycling. In contrast, McConnell Lake in Banff demonstrates a complex response mediated by glacial activity and Nr inputs, underscoring the diverse limnological effects of abiotic stressors on similar ecosystems. The study combines paleoecological measures—such as primary production and diatom community structure—with geochemical proxies to trace these changes, providing critical insights into the ecological footprint of recent environmental transformations in mountain park environments.

Hobbs, W. O., Vinebrooke, R. D., & Wolfe, A. P. (2011). Biogeochemical responses of two alpine lakes to climate change and atmospheric deposition, Jasper and Banff National parks, Canadian Rocky Mountains. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 68(8), 1480–1494. https://doi.org/10.1139/f2011-058