Great Barrier Reef threatened by dirty water from recent floods – Floodwaters thought to contain dangerous chemicals are triggering algal blooms
By Liam James
15 February 2019
(The Independent) – Months after scientists warned it is at greater risk than ever, the Great Barrier Reef is facing a new challenge: dirty water.
Run-off from the recent floods in Australia is spreading from the coast with the potential to reach the fragile reef.
The floodwater is thick with sediment from the shore and scientists fear that this may block out the sun, preventing photosynthesis in the algae the coral relies on to survive.
Dr Frederieke Koon from the Australian Institute of Marine Science told the BBC the floodwater contains nutrients that have also boosted algae growth in some areas, turning the water into “a thick blanket of green”.
It is also feared the floodwater could contain pesticides that could prove extremely damaging to the reef. [more]
Great Barrier Reef at threat from dirty water due to recent floods
glad you back, share all your great posts jim
Starting to look good Des.
Thank you for you great efforts!
Jef
Thank you for the kind words, very glad to be back!