Leväkasvun

Leväkasvun, often translated as algal bloom, refers to the rapid increase in the population of algae in aquatic ecosystems. These blooms can occur in freshwater and marine environments and are typically triggered by an excess of nutrients, a phenomenon known as eutrophication. Common nutrient sources include agricultural runoff containing fertilizers, sewage discharge, and industrial waste.

When conditions are favorable, such as warm temperatures and sufficient sunlight, algae can multiply exponentially. This dense growth can alter the water's appearance, sometimes turning it green, brown, or red. While some algal blooms are harmless, others can produce toxins that are harmful to aquatic life, livestock, pets, and even humans. These toxic blooms, often referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs), can cause fish kills, respiratory problems, and gastrointestinal illnesses.

Furthermore, dense algal blooms can deplete dissolved oxygen in the water as the algae die and decompose. This oxygen depletion can create hypoxic or anoxic conditions, leading to the suffocation of fish and other aquatic organisms. The economic impacts of algal blooms can be significant, affecting fisheries, tourism, and recreation. Mitigation strategies focus on reducing nutrient pollution through improved wastewater treatment, sustainable agricultural practices, and land-use management.