Hydromorphological features of Greek lakes: First results from the monitoring network

Abstract

The Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) describes the hydromorphological elements as supporting to the biological elements. In Greece, comprehensive long-term studies do not exist for the majority of Greek water bodies (Kagalou & Leonardos, 2009). However, the complex geomorphology of Greece, the uneven distribution of precipitation and differences in demand for irrigation and drinking water at local or regional level (Zacharias 2002, Kagalou & Leonardos, 2009) are some of the characteristics that affect hydromorphological features of Greek lakes. The newly established (JMD 140384/2011) national monitoring network has come to fill in this gap; EKBY now operates the national monitoring network for lakes in Greece. This study aims towards the presentation of the first results of lake hydromorphology monitoring during 2013 and 2014.