Eutrophication is a situation whereby water is enriched by excess nutrient salts (phosphates and nitrates), which, in the long run, alters the physical composition of the ecosystem. The changes caused include the death of fish species, aquatic plants and algae growth increases, there is also the decline of the quality of water.
Effects On The Ecosystem
An optimum amount of algae in water promotes growth and increases the number of fish. When the algae overgrow on the hand, it causes disequilibrium in the water. There is discolouration of water which is caused by specific constituents such as zooplankton, fungi, and bacteria. The level of oxygen concentration decreases majorly in deep lakes towards the end of autumn and summer. Good fish disappear in the water, and unwanted fish, such as carp, then replace them. Eutrophication also changes the smell and taste of water.
In many cases, the cyanobacteria that produce the red tide generate strong toxins that are poisonous. The toxins can also lead to the death of animals and human beings if consumed in drinking water.
Effects Of Sediment Pollution
Sediment pollution is a state whereby organic pollutants and other heavy metals lead to pollution. The sediments, in case explicitly polluted, contribute to the pollution of water. The sediments that keep on accumulating in water bodies cause the death of aquatic life.
Trophic Status Of The Lake
The lake has a high phosphorus concentration of about 46 micrograms per litre. Using Carson’s Trophic State Index Lake Trophic Classification Diagram showed that the lake has a eutrophic status. This meant that the lake had a high concentration of phosphor, which was higher than the actual level of the lake. Due to this, the Secchi depth transparency automatically will be minimal due to the eutrophic nature of the lake and the high levels of phosphor. The end of the lake will be increased growth of algae, which will limit light penetration. This will, in turn, cause the death of aquatic life in the lake.
To reduce the amount of phosphorus in the lake, one needs to change the rate of water that flows into the lake. By this, the amount of phosphorus that is accumulated in the lake will reduce the inflow of water and also contain some phosphorus.
Impacts Of The Lake On The Gulf Of Mexico
Most of the water that flows into the Gulf of Mexico contains a high concentration of phosphorus. This implies that there will be an overgrowth of algae, which will lead to the death of aquatic life and cause a bad smell to the environment.
Cultural Eutrophication
This is the process whereby human activities such as farming accelerate natural eutrophication. Human activities increase nutrient salts in the lakes and rivers.
Ways Of Reducing Phosphorus And Nitrogen In Lakes And Streams
One of the best ways to do this is by avoiding the use of fertilizer that contains phosphorus. It is essential to always check the bags before buying to look for the formula used in the fertilizer. It is also important to avoid cutting down on deep-rooted plants that are along the shoreline. These plants, such as flowers and trees, help in absorbing the nutrients before they go into the lake. Managing the nutrients by using the properly provided plans will ensure effectiveness and protect the water bodies. The plans are meant to guide individuals on what kind of nutrients to use.
