ENVS 4101 Chapter : GLOSSARY
Document Summary
Courtesy of the department of soil science, north carolina state university. Algae any of various primitive, chiefly aquatic, one- or multi-celled, nonflowering plants that lack true stems, roots, and leaves, but usually contain chlorophyll. Algae convert carbon dioxide and inorganic nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, into organic matter through photosynthesis and form the basis of the marine food chain. Common algae include dinoflagellates, diatoms, seaweeds, and kelp. Algal bloom a condition which occurs when excessive nutrient levels and other physical and chemical conditions facilitate rapid growth of algae. Algal blooms may cause changes in water color. The decay of the algal bloom may reduce dissolved oxygen levels in the water. Anadromous migrating upstream to freshwater streams to spawn. Anaerobic any process that can occur without molecular oxygen; also applicable to organisms that can survive without free oxygen. Aquifer a subsurface water-bearing layer that will yield water in a usable quantity to a well or spring.
