Stars and STEM Stories
Algae and its Effect on Water Fertility: A Study
Algae are an important component of the aquatic ecosystem, removing vital functions including enhancing water quality. Dr. Ishaq Al-Jabri (North Sharqiya, Oman) prompted his students to investigate this function; their research aims to study the effect of algae on increasing water fertility and its effect on the aquatic environment.
Although algae are important in the ecosystem, it has a different effect on water fertility. Together, the students asked, "How does the presence of algae affect increasing water fertility, and what are the means behind this goal?" Dr. Al-Jabri's class: analyzed the effect of flour on the content of nutrients and nutrients in water; studied the effect of algae on the elements of the water vessel; and explored the factors affecting the interaction of algae with water components.
First, the students defined some terms:
- Algae: Microscopic organisms generated by a group of marine organisms
- Water fertility: the ability to provide nutrients and optional elements to an organism
- Microorganisms: The diversity among different organisms in the aquatic environment
Using tools and knowledge from various GLOBE Program Protocols, the students collected samples of water containing algae, analyzed its nutrient content, and noted algae expansion and its effect on water in the sample area. They found that by achieving an increase in the content of essential nutrients such as nitric and phosphorus, there is a large number of algae. This can improve the apparent composition of the water to support the reproduction of plant and animal life. Results may be recorded on environmental pollutants affecting the presence and growth of algae, such as temperature, lighting, and nutrient availability. Understanding these factors can help improve the management of aquatic environments and alert to future potential changes.
With more detailed conclusions on these points, data analysis can bring continuity to the products arrived at from previous studies, helping to understand social relations and the conservation sector of water quality and aquatic environments. The scientific research community with an interest in water quality conservation, as well as farmers and water resource development experts, may find this analysis helpful.
Images courtesy Dr. Ishaq Al-Jabri, GLOBE Oman.