Eutrofización

Eutrofización is a process where a body of water becomes overly enriched with minerals and nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus. This enrichment leads to excessive growth of algae and aquatic plants, a phenomenon known as algal bloom. As these organisms die and decompose, bacteria consume large amounts of dissolved oxygen in the water. This depletion of oxygen, or hypoxia, can be harmful or lethal to fish, invertebrates, and other aquatic life.

The primary causes of eutrofización are often human activities, referred to as cultural eutrofización. Agricultural runoff containing fertilizers, sewage discharge from wastewater treatment plants, and industrial waste are significant contributors of excess nutrients. Natural eutrofización can also occur over long geological timescales, but the accelerated rate associated with human impact is of greater concern.

Symptoms of eutrofización include murky water, reduced clarity, unpleasant odors, and a decrease in biodiversity. Severe cases can lead to "dead zones" where oxygen levels are too low to support most aquatic organisms. Management strategies focus on reducing nutrient inputs through improved wastewater treatment, controlled agricultural practices, and responsible land management. Protecting and restoring wetlands can also help filter nutrients before they reach waterways.