The role of biological uptake in iron and manganese cycling in Lake Baikal

The role of biological uptake in the internal cycling of Fe and Mn in Lake Baikal was quantified. Biological uptake, sedimentation consisting of the biogenic and lithogenic fluxes, and remineralization have been evaluated. The results of calculations show that about 5-10% of Fe and Mn accumulated in the lake are annually taken up by biota. More than 80% of this amount is again recycled after remineralization of biological material. At this, the biogenic fluxes of Fe and Mn are 2-4 times less compared to lithogenic ones. Thus not only is oxidation of Fe and Mn within the water column highly enriched in the oxygen that results in settling of Fe and Mn oxides, but also intensive biological uptake of these elements contributes to their fast removal from internal cycling. However, essential remineralization makes this process of minor importance to Fe and Mn cycling in Lake Baikal. ?? Springer 2006.