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The Effect of Phosphates on Aquatic Plants

Plants require phosphorus to grow. Organic phosphates in particles or in solution stimulate aquatic plant growth.

  1. Phosphate Sources

    • Phosphates can come from detergents and organic pesticides that run off into the water. Phosphorus also comes from the erosion of natural rock.

    Limiting Nutrient

    • Because phosphorus may represent the single nutrient that limits the growth of aquatic plants, most areas in the US ban phosphorus-containing detergents, according to the MadSci Network.

    Excessive Growth

    • When aquatic plants multiply excessively, they consume large amounts of oxygen in the water and can clog waterways.

    Decay

    • More plants also means an increase in dead vegetation. The organic decay also consumes dissolved oxygen and can harm other aquatic life, such as fish.

    Ideal Concentrations

    • Healthy phosphate levels in water range from 0.04 to 0.21 mg per L depending on factors such as the local rock substrate, according to Sewanee University.

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