Eutrophication – Class 12 | Chapter – 16 | Biology Short Notes Series PDF

Eutrophication: Eutrophication is the process by which an increase in the level of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, in an ecosystem leads to an increase in the growth of plants and algae. This can result in an imbalance in the ecosystem, leading to a range of negative impacts, including:

  • Algal blooms: The increased growth of algae can lead to algal blooms, which can have significant impacts on water quality, aquatic life, and human health.
  • Decreased oxygen levels: The increased growth of plants and algae can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the water, which can harm aquatic life and reduce the overall health of the ecosystem.
  • Invasion of non-native species: The changes in water quality and structure brought about by eutrophication can create opportunities for non-native species to establish and potentially displace native species.
  • Changes in food webs: The changes in the abundance and diversity of species brought about by eutrophication can have significant impacts on food webs and the overall structure of the ecosystem.
  • Economic impacts: The impacts of eutrophication can have significant economic impacts, particularly in industries such as fishing and tourism.

Classification of Eutrophication

Eutrophication can be classified into two main types:

  • Cultural eutrophication: Cultural eutrophication occurs as a result of human activities, such as the release of nutrients from wastewater, agricultural runoff, and air pollution. This type of eutrophication is largely caused by the increased inputs of nutrients into ecosystems, and is most commonly seen in lakes and rivers that are close to human populations.
  • Natural eutrophication: Natural eutrophication occurs as a result of natural processes, such as the weathering of rocks and the decomposition of organic matter. This type of eutrophication is typically seen in older ecosystems that have had a long history of nutrient inputs and is characterized by a more gradual increase in nutrient levels.

Causes of Eutrophication

Eutrophication is largely caused by human activities, including:

  • Agricultural runoff: The runoff of fertilizers, manure, and other agricultural waste can contribute to eutrophication by increasing the level of nutrients in an ecosystem.
  • Sewage discharge: The discharge of raw or inadequately treated sewage into rivers and lakes can contribute to eutrophication by adding high levels of nutrients to the water.
  • Industrial discharge: The discharge of waste from industrial processes, including the production of paper, textiles, and chemicals, can contribute to eutrophication by releasing high levels of nutrients into the environment.
  • Air pollution: Deposition of nitrogen- and phosphorus-rich compounds from the atmosphere can contribute to eutrophication, particularly in areas where air pollution levels are high.
  • Stormwater runoff: The runoff of nutrients, including fertilizers and pet waste, from urban areas into waterways can contribute to eutrophication.


JOIN OUR TELEGRAM CHANNELS
Biology Quiz & Notes Physics Quiz & Notes Chemistry Quiz & Notes

Follow on Facebook

By Team Learning Mantras