Nutrients_and_Eutrophication_Updated.pptx

Reports

1. Nutrients and Issues on Eutrophication Understanding the Role of Nutrients in Aquatic Ecosystems and the Impact of Eutrophication

2. Introduction to Nutrients in Aquatic Ecosystems • Nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus are essential for aquatic life. • Excessive nutrients can disrupt the balance of ecosystems. • Sources include agricultural runoff, wastewater, and industrial discharge.

3. Major Nutrients: Nitrogen & Phosphorus • Nitrogen: Found in fertilizers, sewage, and animal waste. • Phosphorus: Comes from detergents, fertilizers, and organic matter. • Both nutrients contribute to algal blooms when present in excess.

4. What is Eutrophication? • A process where water bodies receive excess nutrients, leading to excessive plant and algal growth. • Reduces oxygen levels in water, harming aquatic life. • Causes poor water quality and biodiversity loss.

5. Causes and Effects of Eutrophication • Causes: Agricultural runoff, urban waste, deforestation, industrial pollution. • Effects: Oxygen depletion, fish kills, toxic algal blooms, habitat destruction.

6. Case Studies: Real-World Examples • Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone: Excess nitrogen from agriculture. • Lake Erie: Harmful algal blooms due to phosphorus runoff. • Manila Bay: Eutrophication from urban and industrial waste.

7. Solutions and Mitigation • Reducing fertilizer use and promoting sustainable farming. • Improving wastewater treatment. • Restoring wetlands and buffer zones. • Raising awareness and implementing stricter policies.

8. Definition of Eutrophication • Eutrophication is the excessive enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, leading to overgrowth of algae and aquatic plants. • This results in oxygen depletion, harming fish and aquatic ecosystems. • Two types: - Natural Eutrophication: Slow, occurring over centuries. - Cultural Eutrophication: Human-induced, occurring rapidly due to pollution.

9. Examples of Eutrophication in the Philippines 1. **Laguna de Bay**: Frequent algal blooms from agricultural and industrial waste. 2. **Manila Bay**: High nutrient levels lead to red tides, affecting fisheries. 3. **Taal Lake**: Excessive fish farming causes oxygen depletion and fish kills. 4. **Pasig River**: Heavy pollution from sewage and industrial waste results in poor water quality and algal growth.