What conditions make lakes and reservoirs susceptible to algal blooms?

Lakes and reservoirs are particularly vulnerable to algal blooms when there are sufficient nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, coupled with warm temperatures. Nutrients act as fertilizers for algae, promoting rapid growth and proliferation. Warm temperatures further enhance this growth, as many types of algae thrive in warmer conditions, increasing their metabolism and reproduction rates.

In contrast, when nutrient levels are insufficient, algal growth is stunted due to a lack of the necessary resources for development. Low temperatures can also inhibit algal growth, as colder conditions often slow metabolic processes. High salinity and low pH are generally conditions that affect aquatic life negatively but are not primary factors leading to algal blooms. Lastly, cool temperatures and low sunlight can limit photosynthesis, which is vital for algal growth, making them less conducive to formations of blooms. Thus, the combination of ample nutrients and warmth is essential for the occurrence of algal blooms in aquatic systems.