Short review: Which aquatic ecosystem model should Indonesian lake managers opt for?

Abstract

One of the key requirements of successful water quality management in lakes and reservoirs is a good understanding of the underlying processes within the system. Lake managers, however, need a very simple practical tool to support quality regulation and policy implementation in terms of protecting and restoring these ecosystems. Here, we communicate a starting point from which lake managers, particularly in Indonesia, can gain a better understanding of aquatic ecosystem processes through the integrated application of different models. Until now, numerical aquatic ecosystem models have been used rarely in designing lake and reservoir restoration programs in Indonesia. We highlight the importance of model applications, while noting the difficulties of advancing management plans for Indonesian lakes and reservoirs.