Freshwater browning is increasing across North America and Europe as higher temperatures and increased runoff push more carbon compounds from soil into lakes and streams. This process changes water chemistry and visibility, which directly impacts the growth rates and population sizes of various fish species. While species like lake trout and bass struggle in darker waters, others like walleye and northern pike thrive due to specialized sensory systems. This shift highlights the tangible impact of climate change on freshwater biodiversity and water quality.
