A 3-hectare lake in the American Midwest suddenly has succumbed to an algal bloom. What is the likely cause of eutrophication in this lake?
A) increased solar radiation
B) introduction of non-native tertiary consumer fish
C) nutrient-rich runoff
D) accidental introduction of a prolific culture of algae
E) iron dust blowing into the lake

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nutrient-rich runoff is the likely cause of eutrophication in the lake. Eutrophication is the process by which excessive nutrients, usually from human activities such as agriculture, urbanization, or sewage runoff, build up in a body of water and cause excessive growth of plant life, such as algae. The sudden algal bloom suggests an increase in nutrient availability, which is most likely due to nutrient-rich runoff entering the lake. Increased solar radiation, introduction of non-native fish, accidental introduction of algae culture, and iron dust blowing into the lake are unlikely causes of eutrophication.

A 3-Hectare Lake in the American Midwest Suddenly Has Succumbed