Lakes that are large (>10 acres), shallow (< 18 feet), soft (alkalinity < 50 ppm), and drainage have both an inlet and outlet, and the main water source is from streams.
The submergent community of this lake type is often dominated by cosmopolitan species like coon-tail (Ceratophyllum demersum), water milfoils (Myriophyllum spp.), common waterweed (Elodea canadensis), fern-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton robbinsii), and wild celery (Vallisneria americana), even in high quality examples. While less abundant, other submersed species, including large-leaf pondweed (P. amplifolius) and slender naiad (Najas flexilis), provide excellent fish habitat. Floating lilies (Nymphaea odorata and Nuphar variegata) are common along lake margins, especially in shallow sheltered bays. Fish species associated with headwater lakes of this type include golden shiner, black bullhead, yellow bullhead, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Lowland lakes of this type have northern pike, black bullhead, yellow bullhead, bluegill, largemouth bass, and black crappie.
