Paleolimnology

Paleolimnology is a field of science that studies ancient or prehistoric lakes through the analysis of sediment cores. Through the study of such ancient lake sediment records, paleolimnologists can reconstruct the long-term history of a lake, including details on changes in water quality, climate, and biological communities over time. Paleolimnology is an important tool for understanding the history and development of local ecosystems, the effects of natural and anthropogenic changes on ecological systems, and the potential effects of future changes. Furthermore, the long-term records from paleolimnological studies are valuable for better understanding of such ecological issues as invasive species, water-quality degradation, and climate change.