Impact of submerged plants on ecosystem health of the plant-dominated Baiyangdian Lake, China

► A structurally dynamic model based on eco-exergy was developed for the ecological health simulation. ► The ecological health condition of Baiyangdian degraded following the decrease of removal of submerged plants. ► The biomass of submerged plants for Baiyangdian Lake should be reduced to 140-180 g/m2 for health improvement.