Skip to main content

eutrophic

Alternative name(s): eutrophication/ eutrophicated habitats

Definition Source References

A condition of an aquatic system in which increased nutrient loading leads to progressively increasing amounts of algal growth and biomass accumulation. When the algae die off and decompose, the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water becomes reduced. In lakes, eutrophication leads to seasonal algal blooms, reduced water clarity, and, often, periodic fish mortality as a consequence of oxygen depletion.

Land degradation and restoration assessment

A condition of an aquatic system in which increased nutrient loading leads to progressively increasing amounts of algal growth and biomass accumulation. When the algae die off and decompose, the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water becomes reduced.

Asia-Pacific assessment, Global assessment (1st work programme)

A condition of an aquatic system in which increased nutrient loading leads to progressively increasing amounts of algal growth and biomass accumulation. When the algae die off and decompose, the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water becomes reduced. The term is sometimes applied more broadly than just to aquatic systems.

Europe and Central Asia assessment http://www.disl.org/assets/uploads/publications/Nutrients_in_Estuaries_November_2010.pdf