Submerged plants in lakes along the Yangtze River have low levels of carbon, silicon, and nitrogen compared to phosphorus. The plants' nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and silicon levels are closely linked. Water depth affects the plants more than sediment does. The amount of light reaching the plants is related to their carbon content. In eutrophic lakes, low light and low silicon levels are key factors in the survival of submerged plants. To help these plants thrive, it is important to improve water clarity in the lakes.