Eutrophication

Definition

Eutrophication is the process where water bodies become enriched with nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants. This phenomenon disrupts normal microbial metabolism and biogeochemical cycles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eutrophication often results from the runoff of fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus.
2. Microbial communities play a crucial role in nutrient cycling during eutrophication.
3. Eutrophication can lead to hypoxic or anoxic conditions, negatively affecting aquatic life.
4. Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a direct consequence of eutrophication.
5. The decay of excess organic matter from eutrophication increases biochemical oxygen demand (BOD).

Review Questions

• What are the primary nutrients involved in eutrophication?
• How does eutrophication impact microbial metabolism in aquatic environments?
• What are some environmental consequences of eutrophication?

Related terms

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD): A measure of the amount of oxygen required by aerobic microorganisms to decompose organic matter in water.

Hypoxia: A condition where there is a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching tissues, often linked with eutrophic waters.

Algal Bloom: A rapid increase in the population of algae in an aquatic system, often resulting from high nutrient levels.