Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lakes are classified thermally based on the frequency and pattern of water circulation (mixing) throughout the year.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Oligomictic lakes: These are tropical lakes characterized by very rare, irregular periods of complete circulation (overturn/mixing).
The water remains thermally stratified almost year-round, and mixing occurs only during exceptionally cold or stormy weather events at irregular intervals of several years.
- Monomictic: Mixes completely once a year.
- Polymictic: Mixes frequently throughout the year.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Lakes showing rare circulation periods at irregular intervals are oligomictic lakes, corresponding to option (D).