Question

Is algae harmful?

Answer 1

Algae:

1. Algae term includes a diverse and large group of photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms.
2. Algae are present at the bottom of the aquatic food chain and provide vital nutrients that feed fish and insects.
3. Algae make their food through photosynthesis, during the process they also produce oxygen, transform nitrogen from the atmosphere, hold nutrients, and bind heavy metals - all these activities benefit the waterbody.
4. But, if excess algae start growing they can have devastating consequences because, in the absence of sunlight, they respire at a very high rate. During respiration, they use lots of oxygen and sugar and release carbon dioxide.
5. Due to this the oxygen level depletes in the pond or lake which can cause all the fishes and other aquatic organisms to die.
6. Also, some algae species produce toxins that can be poisonous to animals and humans.
7. So, algae are beneficial if they are present in a small amount and harmful if they are present in an excessive amount.