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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.
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| − | '''Cultural eutrophication''' is the process that speeds up natural eutrophication because of human activity.
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| − | 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.
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| − | == References ==
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| − | Walmsley RD, 2000. A Review and Discussion Document. Perspectives on Eutrophication of
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| − | Surface Waters: Policy/Research Needs in South Africa. Water Research Commission. Project
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| − | K8/360
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