Lake ecosystems determined by trophic conditions, accurately defined Ecological status of protected area. Trophic condition of water of Lake Skadar and two rivers, the inflow Moraca and the outflow Bojana was described via plankton data considering abundance of phytoplankton, seasonal dynamics of organotrophs, cyanobacteria, total coliforms, plankton biodegrading potential and nitrogen fixing bacterioplankton. The trophic potential for phytoplankton growth has been detected in late autumn throughout September-November 2004, contrary to early summer June-July 2005, and adverse growth of bacterioplankton in May, June and September 2005, respectively. The results of quantitative analysis of coliforms showed good relation of Lake Skadar and Ada Bojana, contrary to similarities between Moraca River and Ada Bojana estimates in accordance with the Pantle-Buck index. Nevertheless, investigation pointed out Lake Skadar beta-mesosaprobic level and moderate self-purification rate. In evaluating trophic conditions the good ecological potential of protected area has been proposed.

Microbiological and saprobiological characteristics of river Moraca and Skadar lake for period of 2004/2005 are done at localities: Pernica, Moraca estuary and Vranjina (Skadar Lake). The objective of the research is to establish quality of water of these aquatic ecosystems based on microbiological and saprobiological analyses, as well as, to show need for protection of these water ecosystems from permanent contaminations, mainly by sewage should be pointed out. Saprobiological index is determined based on Gulyas Pal, and Pantle Buck is used to determine saprobiological level.

The objective of this paper is establishing eco-chemical characterization of the Skadar lake (i.e. Lake Scutari) system by investigation of heavy metal content and distribution in the lake sediments. Factors that influence heavy metal concentrations in sediments are allochthonous (natural and human effects) and autochthonous (natural processes of settling and sorption) as well as transformation of settled substances in sediments. Sediments samples were taken from 15 sites and analysed for copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb).