why do we measure dissolved oxygen in water

Introduction:

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is one of the most important parameters in the water quality assessment for aquatic organisms. The concentration of DO in water impacts the chemical, biological, and physical reactions occurring in aquatic environments. Hence, measuring DO in water is crucial in managing and maintaining the water quality. This article aims to shed light on the importance of measuring DO in water and how it affects aquatic life and water quality in general.

The Impact of Dissolved Oxygen on Aquatic Life:

Subtitle: What Happens When DO Levels Drop?

The concentration of DO in water influences the survival and growth of aquatic organisms. If the DO levels decrease below the necessary concentration, it can cause severe damage to aquatic life. For instance, dissolved oxygen depletion in water leads to Algae Blooms, which can cause toxic water conditions for fish, dolphins, and other aquatic animals. When DO levels fall, the speed of the decomposition process. This means less food for aquatic animals and a decreased level of oxygen in the water. As a result, aquatic organisms, including fish, are deprived of oxygen, leading to suffocation and eventually death.

Subtitle: How is DO Important to Aquatic Ecosystem?

Dissolved oxygen is essential for the oxidative metabolism of aquatic life. Adequate levels of DO in water ensure that fish and other organisms have enough oxygen to breathe. DO is also critical in the process of breaking down organic material by bacteria, fungi, and other organisms that contribute to water's natural purification. When DO levels are within the safe concentration range, aquatic organisms thrive and support life for all creatures in the water.

Impact of Water Temperature on Dissolve Oxygen:

Subtitle: How Temperature Can Affect DO?

Water temperature influences the amount of oxygen that water can hold. As water temperature increases, it holds less oxygen. As water temperature decreases, it holds more oxygen. This means that different aquatic organisms require different levels of DO based on the water temperature range in which they live. Changes in water temperature, particularly high temperatures, can cause thermal shock to aquatic life, leading to death. Therefore, monitoring the temperature of the water can provide valuable information on managing water quality for the survival of aquatic life.

Subtitle: Can Water Quality Affect DO?

Yes, poor water quality can significantly reduce DO levels. For example, runoff water from agricultural fields or sewage that enters the water body can increase the levels of nutrients, leading to excessive algae growth. The algae consumed a lot of the oxygen levels in the water, leading to a drop in DO levels. This alteration of the water quality can create unfavorable conditions for aquatic life, leading to mortalities.

Conclusion:

Dissolved oxygen is an essential aspect of water quality measurement. It plays a vital role in supporting aquatic life and ensuring that water is safe for human consumption. Measuring DO ensures that water bodies are within safe levels to promote the survival and growth of aquatic organisms. DO levels can change due to temperature, water quality, algae blooms, and other human or natural activities. Thus, continuous monitoring of DO concentration is necessary to ensure that the water quality remains stable and favorable for aquatic life.