The connection between algae flowers and nutrient overflow

The connection between algae flowers and nutrient overflow

In recent years, the phenomenon of algae blossom has increasingly attracted attention in science messages. The green, sometimes even red or brown -colored water surfaces, which are characteristic of algae flowers, are not only aesthetically uncomfortable, but also indicate profound problems in the water ecosystem. One of the main factors that contribute to the development of this flower is the excessive nutrient content in the water, which is also known as over -fertilization. In this article we will look under the water surface to give a detailed and fact -based overview of the connection between algae flowers and ability to nutrients.

What are algae flowers?

Definition of algae flowers

Algae flowers are caused by a sudden increase in algae and/or cyanobacteria (blue-algae) that can cloud the water and change its color. This explosion of algae growth is referred to as "flower", since the processes behind it resemble the flowering processes in higher plants. However, the effects on the aquatic ecosystem are far less gratifying.

Effects of algae flowers

Algae flowers can have different negative effects on the ecosystem, both directly and indirectly. An algae blossom directly changes the water: it worsens its quality and often leads to fish death because it reduces the available oxygen in the water. Indirectly, an algae blossom also has a negative effect on the biodiversity because it leads to a changed food network and thus influences the entire community in the water.

Causes of algae flowers: The ability to nutrients

One of the most important causes of algae flowers is the abundance of nutrients, in particular nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for the growth of algae and occur in natural ecosystems, often in balanced quantities. However, a problem arises when the concentration of these nutrients is unnaturally high, typically due to human activities.

agricultural over -fertilization

One of the main sources of this surplus is agriculture. Agricultural practices such as the intensive use of fertilizers and cattle farming mean that large amounts of nutrients get into the soil. Some of these nutrients are absorbed by the plants, but a significant part is also washed out and finally ends up in the waters, where it leads to a nutrient overflow.

wastewater and sewage pits

Another source of nutrient overflow is waste water, especially untreated or poorly treated wastewater. Both household and industrial wastewater can contain high concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus. If these waste water is introduced into water, you can cause a nutrient overflow.

like overflowing nutrients to algae flowers

If the concentration of nutrients in the water increases strongly, algae and cyanobacteria can grow and multiply faster. As long as there are enough light and other necessary conditions, they occur in a so -called "flower".

This excessive growth of algae and cyanobacteria can, however, lead to the exhaustion of the existing nutrients and impair the balance of the ecosystem. The algae and cyanobacteria die and are decomposed by bacteria that consume oxygen. The resulting oxygen poverty in the water can cause other water organisms to suffocate.

prevention and control of algae flowers

In view of the negative effects of algae flowers, it is important to take suitable prevention and control measures. These can be implemented on both political and individual level.

regulation of agricultural practices

One of the most effective preventive measures is the regulation of agricultural practices. The aim is to limit the use of fertilizers and prevent the washing out of nutrients into water. This can be achieved through technical measures (e.g. better storage of manure) and through political measures (e.g. stricter regulations for fertilizers).

Improvement of wastewater treatment

Another essential prevention measure is to improve wastewater treatment. For example, the treatment of industrial and municipal wastewater should be improved in such a way that as few nutrients as possible get into the waters.

Education and awareness

At an individual level, awareness of the problem and adequate behavior is crucial. Education and sensitization can make people reduce their contribution to nutrient pollution, for example by reducing the consumption of cleaning agents and cosmetic products that contain phosphorus, or by using composted garden waste instead of artificial fertilizers.

conclusion

The connection between algae flowers and the ability to nutrient is a clear example of the far -reaching effects of human activities on the environment. The challenge is to find effective solutions that meet both human needs and the requirements of the ecosystem. This requires comprehensive and integrated approaches that are implemented on both individual and political level.