A · B · C · D · E · F · G · H · I · J · K · L · M · N · O · P · Q · R · S · T · U · V · W · X · Y · Z
algal bloom
 |
An algal bloom leaves a green scum-like substance on the waters of the Indian River Lagoon, Florida, in the mid-1990s
|
A sudden spurt of algal growth due to greatly increased amounts of phosphorus entering the aquatic ecosystem from sewage systems and agricultural fertilizers. Excessive growth of the algae causes destruction of many of the higher links of the food web. Algae that die and sink to the bottom at the end of the growing season stimulate massive growth of bacteria the following year, resulting in depletion of oxygen in the deeper water layers. This may result in fish kills and replacement with less valuable species who may be more tolerant of increased phosphorus levels. Deoxygenation also may cause chemical changes in the mud on the bottom, producing increased quantities of chemicals and toxic gases. All these changes further accelerate the eutrophication (aging) of the aquatic ecosystem.
Related category
• ECOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Source: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Science
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)
BACK TO TOP
|
