|
|
| What is
eutrophication? : |
"Eutrophication is the process of
nutrient enrichment of waters which results in the
stimulation of an array of symptomatic changes amongst
which increased production of algae and aquatic
macrophytes (plants), deterioration of water quality and
other symptomatic changes are found to be undesirable
and interfere with water uses."
[
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development,
1982]
Eutrophication is of concern because it
can have numerous negative impacts. These include
ecological impacts (like the deterioration of water
quality and loss of biodiversity), aesthetic,
recreational and human health impacts. All these impacts
have a significant economic impact.
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| What
is the situation in South Africa? |
|
Many South African impoundments exhibit
high nutrient enrichment and eutrophication related
problems. Some 80 impoundments have been monitored in
South Africa. However, many impoundments do not have
regular eutrophication monitoring. The main aim of the
NEMP is to address this need.
The NEMP will provide annual
assessments of eutrophication in South Africa [2003: HTML Table] [2003: PDF document].
|
|
| The Cyanobacteria |
|
A short introduction
to the cyanobacteria
(also known as cyanophytes and blue-green algae).
|
| Toxic Cyanobacteria |
|
A 2001 information brochure
on the the toxic cyanobacteria
(then known as toxic blue-green algae).
|
| The Macrophyte Manual |
| A manual of aquatic
macrophytes is in preparation. |
|
