Walking In Veseli
EUTROPHICATION
What is eutrophication? It is a process in which large quantities of nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, are added to an aquatic system.
Where do the nutrients come from? Nitrogen and phosphorus are released from soil or during decomposition of dead organisms. Human activities contribute significantly – e. g. artificial fertilizers contain a lot of nitrogen and phosphorus, which are then rinsed off from fields into water systems. Phosphorus is also part of most laundry detergents.
Why is eutrophication bad? Especially in stagnant waters, the high nutrient content leads to an enhanced growth of algae and cyanobacteria. The decay is also fast. A lot of the oxygen from the water is used up in the process while the decaying mass accumulates at the bottom. This altered water environment is unsuitable for fish and other organisms. Some cyanobacteria release toxins, so bathing in such water poses a health risk.
enhanced growth of algae and cyanobacteria
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Eutrophication can be limited by:
- Preventing extra nutrients from entering water systems (by curbing the use of artificial fertilizers and phosphate detergents)
- Preventing soil erosion and run-off from fields (containing remains of fertilizers) to water systems
- Using special herbivorous (plant eating) fish, which feed on algae and cyanobacteria
- Removing toxic sediment from the bottom
- Using chemicals (in worst cases only!) which condense phosphorus or kill cyanobacteria.
Contact
Vzdělávací a informační středisko Bílé Karpaty, o.p.s.
Marie Petrů
Tel.:518 322 545
e-mail:visbk@bilekarpaty.cz
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