In high mountain regions, climate change is occurring much faster than the global average, which means that alpine lakes react particularly quickly and visibly to the changing climatic conditions. At the same time, these ecosystems are characterized by a high sensitivity to changes in temperature and precipitation, as even small fluctuations can lead to noticeable changes in vegetation, snow and ice cover, and water systems.
The Gosainkunda Lake, a high mountain lake in Nepal's Langtang National Park (~4,380 m a.s.l.), is culturally and ecologically significant. The lake serves as a natural shrine for Hindu pilgrims. Changes to the lake (e.g. fluctuations in water level, water quality) therefore also have social and cultural implications. In addition, the Gosainkunda Lake and the associated wetland are a habitat for endemic and endangered animal and plant species and serve as a source of freshwater for nearby communities. Due to current climate change and anthropogenic pollution, the lake may be exposed to degradation and water level fluctuations. Glacier melting and increased erosion have the potential to change the aquatic ecosystem. With our project, we are investigating the anthropogenic influence on the lake and aquatic biodiversity as well as the impact of climate change on this highly sensitive region. Our methodological focus is on genetic analyses using metabarcoding and metagenomics. These are complemented by diatom analyses.
Theses are also possible on this topic.