monomictic lake

A monomictic lake is a type of lake that experiences one period of circulation per year, alternating with a single thermal stratification event. This is in contrast to dimictic lakes, which have two periods of mixing annually.12

In monomictic lakes, the water temperature influences density, leading to stratification. During warmer periods, the surface water warms and becomes less dense, staying at the top. Colder, denser water remains at the bottom. This stratification prevents mixing between the upper and lower layers of the lake.2

There are two types of monomictic lakes:
* Warm monomictic lakes: These lakes do not cool below 4°C (39°F) and experience overturn once a year as they warm up. They are often found in tropical regions.2
* Cold monomictic lakes: These lakes do not warm above 4°C (39°F) and also experience one overturn period per year, typically in the spring after ice melts. These are less common and found at high latitudes or altitudes.2

The thermal stratification in lakes affects the distribution of dissolved oxygen and other substances, which can have significant impacts on aquatic life.1