Could someone please explain what biomass means? Does it just mean how much energy an organism has?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomass
thanks, Lance!='}
what is increased amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in a lake
Increased amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in a lake refers to a phenomenon known as eutrophication. Eutrophication occurs when there is an excessive supply of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, in a body of water like a lake. These nutrients can come from various sources such as agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial pollution.
When nitrogen and phosphorus levels increase in a lake, it can lead to the rapid growth of algae and other aquatic plants. This excess growth of plants is known as an algal bloom. Algal blooms can have several negative impacts on the lake ecosystem and surrounding environment.
Firstly, the dense growth of algae can block sunlight from reaching underwater vegetation, which can harm or kill them. This reduction in plant life can disrupt the food chain and decrease biodiversity in the lake. Moreover, when the algae die and decompose, it consumes dissolved oxygen in the water, leading to lower oxygen levels. This oxygen depletion can result in fish kills and other detrimental effects on aquatic life.
Furthermore, when the excessive algae eventually die off, the bacteria that decompose them consume even more oxygen, further exacerbating the oxygen depletion in the lake. This condition is called hypoxia or "dead zones," where the lack of oxygen makes it difficult for most aquatic organisms to survive.
Overall, increased amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in a lake can disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem, leading to a decline in water quality, loss of biodiversity, and negative impacts on aquatic life. Efforts to mitigate eutrophication often involve reducing nutrient inputs through improved wastewater treatment, minimizing agricultural runoff, and adopting sustainable land management practices.