Impact of Algal-Available Phosphorus on Lake Erie Water Quality: Mathematical Modeling

摘要

Accurate estimates of the forms and bioavailability of phosphorus loadings are necessary for loading trend analysis and water quality model development. Total phosphorus loading data for Lake Erie from 1970 to 1980 were categorized into three forms, based on phosphorus bioavailability studies. The three forms were soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) (immediately available for algal uptake), external ultimately-available phosphorus (EUP) (not immediately available but converted to an available form at a specific rate), and external refractory phosphorus (ERP) (never available for algal uptake). Sensitivity analyses were performed and demonstrated the need for additional research to examine the in-lake dynamics of allochthonous ultimately-available phosphorus from Lake Erie tributaries. Continued research on the extent and rate of SRP release, and the settling velocity of external ultimately-available phosphorus from Lake Erie tributaries is recommended.