Chemical Nutrients and Eutrophication of Water Bodies

Eutrophication is a condition when a water body becomes excessively augmented with excess minerals and nutrients that induce disproportionate growth of plants and algae. Eutrophication is a widespread problem in lakes, reservoirs, rivers, estuaries, and other coastal habitats. It is caused by the excessive input of nutrients to water bodies, mainly nitrogen and phosphorus, often as a result of human activities. High nutrient concentrations can lead to harmful algal blooms, hypoxia, fish kills, and the production of toxins. While there are many management strategies for mitigating the consequences of eutrophication, reversal and recovery is expensive and takes a long time. When possible, the prevention of nutrient loading is the key for avoiding the loss of ecosystem services that accompany the eutrophication of surface waters.