What are consequences of increased water turbidity?

Increased water turbidity occurs when particulate matter, such as sediments, algae, and organic materials, is suspended in the water column. This suspension can significantly affect aquatic ecosystems. One of the primary consequences of increased turbidity is the reduction of light penetration into the water. As a result, aquatic plants and phytoplankton that rely on sunlight for photosynthesis are severely impacted. Reduced light limits their ability to perform photosynthesis, which can lead to decreased oxygen production and can disrupt the entire food web.

While turbidity can sometimes have certain benefits, such as providing nutrient materials for some organisms, the dominant effect is a reduction in the quality of light available for photosynthetic organisms. This relationship is key in aquatic environments, making the impact of turbidity an essential concept in understanding water quality and ecosystem health.