Quick eutrophication question (1 Viewer)

[Tim035]

At what concentrations are the phosphate and nitrate ions of concern in eutrophication?

 

[tennille]

When the nitrogen concentration is ~3 ppm, the water begins appears to have a algal scum on the surface. But I think for eutrophication to occur, the concentration of nitrates needs to be above ~2.5 - 5 ppm. Eutrophication occurs when phosphate levels are more than ~1 ppm, much smaller than nitrate levels. This is because phophates are not as abundant as nitrates and therefore are readily taken up in small amounts by aquatic life. Furthermore, by increasing the amount of phosphates, more nitrates can be taken up before the phosphates are depleted, leading to algal blooms and eventually eutrophication.

 

[rama_v]

It also depends on whether you are referring to a river or a still lake.