Mono Lake

Freshwater Spring at Mono Lake Salinity data collected in waters surrounding spring at the brine shrimp collection site. Data collected at a series of distances from the mouth of the spring. Testing for local chemocline. Activity: Propose the salinity trend you expect to observe. Sketch a graph of the distance from the spring versus the salinity.

Salinity Gradient From Freshwater Spring at Mono Lake

Core Sampling Site – Thin Microbial Mat Two core samples were taken of the Microbial Mat in a pool near the lakeshore. Salinity data was collected in the lake, in a pool where samples were taken (minor pool), and in adjacent pool (major pool). Salinity of Mono Lake approx. 7.0 % salt

Salinity of adjacent pools Core samples Sample A – 2.1% salt Sample B – 1.9 % salt Sample C – 1.7 % salt Sample D – 0.0 % salt Sample E – 0.1 % salt Mono Lake (7.0% salt) major pool minor pool Activity: Is there a spring in this area? Based on the data, what is the most likely location of the spring?

Salinity of adjacent pools Core samples Sample A – 2.1% salt Sample B – 1.9 % salt Sample C – 1.7 % salt Sample D – 0.0 % salt Sample E – 0.1 % salt Highly Saline Fresh Brackish