Large lakes are important because of their size and ecological distinctiveness, as well as their economic and cultural value. Optimal management of them requires a proper understanding of anthropogenic impacts, both on the lake ecosystems, as such and on the services they provide for society. The specific structural and functional properties of large lakes, . morphology, hydrography, biogeochemical cycles, and food-web structure, are all directly related to their size. These vulnerable ecosystems often suffer from accelerated eutrophication, over-fishing, toxic contamination, and invasive species. Large lakes offer socio-economic benefits and could be used in many ways, and are often areas in which economic, cultural and political interests uses create potential risks for the health and.
