Eutrophication Basics
What is eutrophication?
the process in which a water body becomes overly enriched with nutrients, leading to the plentiful growth of simple plant life.
What causes eutrophication in water?
Eutrophication is mostly caused by human actions due to their dependence on using nitrate and phosphate fertilizers.
What are the two primary nutrients involved in eutrophication?
nitrogen and phosphorus
Which human activity is the largest contributor to nutrient pollution in lakes and rivers, leading to eutrophication?
agricultural runoff and mostly fertilizers.
How do human activities contribute to eutrophication?
Agricultural fertilizers add excess nitrogen and phosphorus to water, causing eutrophication.
What type of waste from homes and industries can introduce excess nutrients to water bodies, causing eutrophication?
improperly treated sewages.
How does eutrophication affect aquatic life in Lake Winnipeg?
It reduces fish populations, alters species composition, and disrupt ecosystems.
What is the term for the harmful algae blooms caused by excessive nutrients in water?
"algal blooms," which can release toxins harmful to aquatic ecosystems and into humans.