Turbulent mixing layers and associated diffusive fluxes across the epilimnion and metalimnion in stratified large Lake Biwa

Abstract

Stratification and turbulent mixing have an immense impact on biogeochemical regimes and ecosystem dynamics in stratified large lakes. This study investigates the physical properties of the epi‐ and metalimnion of Lake Biwa (Japan), focusing on the persistent vertical diffusive fluxes due to turbulent mixing in the lower metalimnion and their effects on upward nitrate transport. We conducted 24‐h observations at an offshore station in the summer for three consecutive years to examine the temporal and vertical variations of stratification and turbulence. A mooring system provided long‐term data on stratification and current velocity, while thermal profiles along two offshore transects were collected to investigate lateral changes. Our findings revealed strong stratification in the upper metalimnion, where vertical diffusive fluxes were essentially suppressed. Distinct turbulent mixing layers were identified near the water surface and within the moderately stratified lower metalimnion. Field data and numerical model suggested that the turbulence in the lower metalimnion was driven by shear instability, straining, and/or wave–wave interactions linked with the persistent internal waves that occur even during weak winds. Vertical eddy diffusivity of > 10−5 m2 s−1 in the lower metalimnion was associated with rather strong turbulence, which has not been reported in other large lakes. The elevated turbulence resulted in an upward nitrate flux of 0.2 mmol N m−2 d−1 across the lower metalimnion, indicating that the upward nutrient transport could support primary productivity and play an important ecological role in deep stratified lakes.