Leväesiintymiä

Leväesiintymiä, often translated as algal blooms, refers to the rapid increase in the population of algae in an aquatic ecosystem. These events can occur in both freshwater and marine environments. Algae are microscopic photosynthetic organisms that form the base of many aquatic food webs. When conditions are favorable, such as abundant nutrients, sunlight, and appropriate water temperatures, algae can reproduce at an accelerated rate.

There are two main types of leväesiintymiä: cyanobacterial blooms, also known as blue-green algae, and phytoplankton blooms. Cyanobacteria are actually bacteria that perform photosynthesis, while phytoplankton are true algae. Some algal blooms are harmless, but others can be problematic. Certain species of cyanobacteria produce toxins that can be harmful to humans, animals, and aquatic life. These toxins can contaminate drinking water sources and pose risks to recreational users of affected water bodies.

The underlying causes of excessive algal blooms are often linked to anthropogenic activities. Nutrient pollution, particularly from agricultural runoff containing fertilizers (nitrogen and phosphorus) and from wastewater discharge, is a major contributor. These excess nutrients act as fertilizers for the algae, fueling their rapid growth. Climate change, with rising water temperatures, can also exacerbate the frequency and intensity of these blooms. Monitoring and managing nutrient inputs are crucial strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of leväesiintymiä.