Ravinnekapasiteetti

Ravinnekapasiteetti refers to the total amount of a specific nutrient that a soil or water body can hold or store. In the context of soil, it describes the soil's ability to retain essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making them available for plant uptake over time. This capacity is influenced by factors such as soil organic matter content, clay content, and pH. A higher ravinnekapasiteetti means the soil can hold more nutrients, reducing the risk of leaching and the need for frequent fertilizer applications.

In aquatic environments, ravinnekapasiteetti relates to the total amount of nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorus, that a lake, river, or other water body can assimilate without experiencing negative consequences, such as eutrophication. This capacity is determined by the volume of water, the rate of water exchange, and the biological processes occurring within the ecosystem, including nutrient uptake by aquatic organisms and sedimentation. Exceeding the ravinnekapasiteetti of a water body can lead to algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and a decline in water quality. Understanding and managing ravinnekapasiteetti is crucial for sustainable agriculture and for protecting aquatic ecosystems.