eutrophication

(noun)

process whereby excess levels of nitrogen or phosphorus cause excessive growth of microorganisms, depleting dissolved oxygen levels and kill ecosystem fauna

Related Terms

Examples of eutrophication in the following topics:

  • The Nitrogen Cycle

    • A major effect from fertilizer runoff is saltwater and freshwater eutrophication: a process whereby nutrient runoff causes the excess growth of microorganisms, depleting dissolved oxygen levels and killing ecosystem fauna.

  • The Phosphorus Cycle

    • These zones can be caused by eutrophication, oil spills, dumping of toxic chemicals, and other human activities.