User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
Theoretical basis of my research project is to demonstrate how algae growth varies depending on the flow regime of freshwater creeks. The growth of algae can act as an indicator for water quality (i.e. water pollution) and as a predictor for the maintenance of water supply systems (i.e. intake pipes and filter lines). Algae can deplete the oxygen in water, release toxins, and lead to taste and odour issues. More turbulence leads to more oxygen absorbed by water, thus counteracting the oxygen depleted by algae. The creeks sampled in my research project have proven to be fish bearing through previously conducted fish presence studies and observation. Establishing the connection between algae growth and flow regimes within freshwater creeks will aid in maintaining a healthy ecosystem for fish and predict creeks potentially at risk for loss of fish.
Ecological processes that my hypothesis will touch on are the hydrologic cycle and nutrient cycling.
It is also important to acknowledge that temperature, seasonality, weather, and unknown anthropogenic activities can affect the growth rate of algae. Other studies have been completed focusing on the relationship between nutrient levels and algae growth as well as temperature and algae growth.
Keywords: Algae growth, flow regime, water depth, turbulent
