Leväkukinto

Leväkukinto is a Finnish term referring to an algal bloom. These blooms occur when there is a rapid increase in the population of algae, often in freshwater or marine environments. The rapid growth is typically fueled by an abundance of nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, which can enter waterways through agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial discharge.

When algae proliferate significantly, they can form a visible layer on the surface of the water, which may appear green, blue-green, or even reddish-brown. This can significantly reduce the amount of sunlight reaching submerged aquatic plants, disrupting the underwater ecosystem. Furthermore, as the algae die and decompose, the process consumes dissolved oxygen in the water, potentially leading to hypoxic conditions that can harm or kill fish and other aquatic organisms.

Some types of algal blooms, particularly those caused by cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), can produce toxins. These toxins can be harmful to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife if ingested or through skin contact. Public health advisories are often issued when toxic algal blooms are detected. Monitoring and management strategies aim to reduce nutrient pollution and mitigate the frequency and severity of leväkukinto events.