Scientists from the Kurchatov Institute conducted the first comprehensive analysis of the causes of flowering water in Russia, studied the geography of the phenomenon and proposed a strategy to combat this problem. The study is published in the journal Water.
The scientific work covered about 60 cases of mass blooming of algae recorded in the Russian Federation in 2016-2018. The results of the study showed that this phenomenon is characteristic of all climatic zones of Russia; outbreaks are observed in all federal districts. However, most often this problem is encountered in the south of the European part of the country.
The main share of outbreaks during the study period was in the Southern Federal District - 21%. Scientists believe that this is facilitated by developed agriculture, a large flow of tourists, a warm climate and low flow of local reservoirs. In second place is the Central Federal District (18%), in third place is the Volga Region (15%).
- Most often, the problem of rapid growth of algae is encountered in southern Russia
- © SIC "Kurchatov Institute"
As an example of the harmful effects of water blooming on nature, scientists cite the situation in July 2017 in the Olyutor Bay of the Bering Sea. Then, the multiplied Alexandrium tamarense microalgae released so many neurotoxins that the pink salmon that lived in the bay died directly in the fishing nets.
“The mass flowering of algae has a wide range of negative consequences, for example, a decrease in the quality of drinking water or even a cut-off of water supply in cities, pesticides of fish and waterfowl, and a decrease in attractiveness for tourists. In some cases, toxins released into the water pose a threat to human life, ”Zorigto Namsaraev, a leading researcher at the Kurchatov Institute’s Department of Biotechnology and Bioenergy, told RT.
According to the scientist, the purpose of the study was to understand exactly where, under what conditions and with what periodicity dangerous flowering phenomena occur. With this information, the authorities will be able to focus on the most problematic areas and take the necessary measures in advance.
“There are technologies for eliminating the effects of mass algal blooms that allow harvesting and processing of excess biomass. However, preventive measures are always the most effective, ”said Zorigto Namsaraev.
One of the main factors in the mass flowering of algae, scientists call inadequate wastewater treatment. A large number of phosphorus and nitrogen compounds from effluents stimulate the development of algae. To solve the problem, experts consider it necessary to modernize the treatment facilities. Scientists also offer citizens to take care of the environment and individually: use detergents and other synthetic detergents with a minimum phosphate content.