Eutrophication is the process which happens when there are an excessive nutrients in the lakes and is considered as environmental problem, which affects many areas of the world. Eutrophication is defined as the over enrichment of water bodies by nutrients, such as nitrates and phosphates, which are responsible for over-growth of plants (such as algae) in lakes and degradation of many ecosystems.
How Eutrophication of lakes is caused ?
- When Eutrophication is caused by human interference, it is called as cultural Eutrophication.
- It is generally caused by direct discharge of sewage waste (rich in chemical nutrients) of cities and industries into water bodies.
- Soil erosion, floods and natural flow of rivers also brings excess nutrients from land into water bodies which supports excessive growth of algae blooms.
- The excessive use of fertilizers in fields and animal waste are washed by surface run-off into lakes contributes to Eutrophication.
- Poorly managed agriculture is a factor of causing Eutrophication.
Effects of Eutrophication :
1. Eutrophication of lakes threatens the survival of fish and aquatic life forms.
2. It deteriorates the water quality making it unsafe for potable purpose and increases the turbidity of water.
3. It causes hypoxia which is harmful for aquatic life.
4. It makes the water bodies more shallow.