Difference between revisions of "What causes eutrophication?"

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The main causes of eutrophication are''' an increase in the concentration of nutrients''' in an ecosystem. A distinction is sometimes made between 'natural' and 'cultural' ([[anthropogenic]]) eutrophication processes.
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'''Natural eutrophication''' has been occurring for millennia. It is the process of addition of [[nutrients]] to water bodies, including lakes, rivers, estuaries and oceans resulting in changes to the primary production and species composition of the community.
 
'''Cultural eutrophication''' is the process that speeds up natural eutrophication because of human activity.
 
These activities come from many diverse sources including agriculture, [[agriculture]], septic tanks, urban wastewater, urban stormwater runoff, industry, and fossil fuel combustion. Nutrients such as phosphates and nitrates enter aquatic ecosystems via the air, surface water, or groundwater.
 
 
 
== References ==
 
 
 
Walmsley RD, 2000. A Review and Discussion Document. Perspectives on Eutrophication of
 
Surface Waters: Policy/Research Needs in South Africa. Water Research Commission. Project
 
K8/360
 

Revision as of 14:47, 16 April 2013