|
|
|
Algae are
very common photosynthetic and aguatic organisms that can be found in
water bodies. They are classified in the phyla:
diatoms, chlorophyta,
euglenophyta,
dinoflagellata,
chrysophyta,
phaeophyta,
rhodophyta and
cyanobacteria. The last are different from the other algae because they
are prokaryotic (organisms
characterized by the absence of a distinct,
membrane-bound nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, and by DNA that is
not organized into chromosomes),
while all the algae are eukaryotic (organisms whose cells possess a
definite nucleus enclosed by a membrane and organelles enclosed by
membranes). The enrichment of waters by inorganic plant nutrients is called eutrophication. This phenomenon can be caused by various sources, both artificial and natural. Eutrophication has relevant effects on water bodies: the main are algal blooming, excessive aguatic macrophyte growth and oxygen depletion. Further consequences for human activities are: the decrease of water quality, aesthetic flow and navigation water problems and extinction in some water bodies of some oxygen depending organisms or animals. Different solutions for the problem of eutrophication are being analyzed or are already applied. Among them, nutrient limitation in water bodies, algae filtration and ultrasonic irradiation. |
|
|
Related topics
For more books and
reading information see our website: | |