Understanding the components of the ecology of a lake can give a better understanding of what is happening beneath the lake surface – and also of the roles that individuals and society play in affecting our lakes. This limnology section will gradually be expanded to cover important lake ecology concepts. We start with a discussion of the properties of water and the important influence of sunlight upon our lakes. Living in water presents plants and animals with different challenges than life on land. Winter and ice affect life in our lakes. Also read how food webs work within our lakes.