Alkalinity and Algae

Many genera of algae occur freely in both soft, acid water and in limestone spring streams, but others seem to be primarily confined to either hard or soft waters.

The alkalinity of water or some related parameters such as pH or hardness has often been considered to exert a considerable influence on algae. Some have found not only that fewer specimens grew per unit area in acid streams than in alkaline rivers, but that the dominant forms were also different.

The greater abundance of algae in soft water lakes as compared to hard water lakes is dependent upon the bicarbonate content.

The algae of soft water regions are largely Desmids and certain species of Chrosophata and Chlorophyta. On the other hand, the Diatoms and Achnanthes and Cocconeis are found only in alkaline water.

End of Alkalinity and Algae

Controlling Factors of Algae Growth are briefly discussed.
Nutrients and Algae
Grazing Aquatic Animals

Next Topics about Algae…
Blue-green Algae
Euglenoid
Green Algae
Yellow-Golden-brown Algae and Diatoms
Brown Algae
Red Algae
Significance of Algae

Next Topics…
Fungi
Liverworts and Mosses
Vascular Plants

Go Back to:
Physical Water Quality
Chemical Water Quality
Biological Water Quality
Water Basics 101

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