O2blåsor

O2blåsor, a Swedish term often translated as "oxygen bubbles," refers to a phenomenon observed in aquatic environments, particularly in lakes and stagnant waters. These visible bubbles are typically composed of gases released by aquatic plants and algae during photosynthesis. As these organisms convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into energy, they release oxygen as a byproduct. This oxygen, when released in sufficient quantities and under certain conditions, can form small, visible bubbles that adhere to plant surfaces or rise to the water's surface.

The presence of O2blåsor is generally an indicator of active photosynthesis and a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Factors influencing the visibility and abundance of these bubbles include water temperature, light intensity, and the density of aquatic vegetation. Warmer temperatures and abundant sunlight can accelerate photosynthetic rates, leading to a greater production of oxygen bubbles. In some cases, particularly in dense mats of aquatic plants, the sheer volume of released oxygen can create a shimmering effect on the water's surface. While primarily composed of oxygen, these bubbles may also contain trace amounts of other gases produced by biological processes. The term is commonly used in colloquial descriptions of freshwater environments in Sweden.