Distribution and carbon isotope composition of lipid biomarkers in Lake Erhai and Lake Gahai sediments on the Tibetan Plateau

► We use lipids to determine carbon sources to lakes sediments on the Tibetan Plateau. ► n-Alkanes were sourced of higher plants waxes and submerged littoral zone plants. ► n-Fatty acids were sourced of bacteria and floating and/or submergent macrophytes. ► n-Alkan-2-ones were sourced from microorganisms reworked higher plants waxes. ► High productivity and limited CO2 lead organic matter had heavier δ13C in Lake Erhai.