What type of lake is characterized as shallow, nutrient-rich, and capable of supporting large fish populations?

Eutrophic lakes are characterized by being shallow and nutrient-rich, which results in high biological productivity. They typically have abundant plant growth, particularly algae, which can lead to high fish populations, especially of species that thrive in such environments. The presence of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, promotes plant and algal growth, providing ample food for fish and other aquatic life.

In comparison, oligotrophic lakes are characterized by low nutrient levels, resulting in lower productivity and fewer fish populations. Mesotrophic lakes fall somewhere in between, with moderate nutrient levels and productivity. Deep lakes do not specifically indicate nutrient levels and can be oligotrophic or eutrophic depending on other factors, such as location and water structure. Therefore, the defining characteristics of eutrophic lakes make them the clear answer for lakes that are shallow, nutrient-rich, and support large fish populations.