STRIVE - Environmental Protection Agency

The variables measured were dissolved oxygen,
temperature, conductivity and pH. Thermal stratification
was observed in both lakes on occasions depending
on the meteorological conditions (Figs 3.29 and 3.30).
Notably, the temperature levels in the upper water
column of Ballyquirke Lough were always greater than
those recorded for the same period in Lough Corrib.
The temperature in Ballyquirke Lough near 10 m depth
N. Touzet (2008-FS-EH-3-S5)
43
was also cooler than that measured for Lough Corrib
at similar depths. The conductivity values in Lough
Corrib were significantly higher than those measured
in Lough Ballyquirke (Student t-test, p < 0.001) and in
general greater in the domain extending from stations
1 to 4 (data not shown). The values recorded for pH
and dissolved oxygen concentrations were positively
correlated for both lakes (Pearson’s, p = 0.001,
Figure 3.29. Vertical profiles of temperature and pH across a transect of stations in Ballyquirke Lough on three
sampling surveys during summer 2010. Axes: horizontal = transect of stations as in Fig. 3.28; vertical = depth
(m); colour gradient = temperature in degree Celsius and pH.
Figure 3.30. Vertical profiles of temperature and pH across a transect of stations in Lough Corrib on three
sampling surveys during summer 2010. Axes: horizontal = transect of stations as in Fig. 3.28; vertical = depth
(m); colour gradient = temperature in degree Celsius and pH.