Turbidity relates to the effect that suspended particles have on water clarity. Rainfall and runoff can increase the suspended solid load in a river and make the river appear cloudy or muddy. High biological productivity related to increases in nutrients and temperature can result in increases of diatoms and other algae that contribute to turbidity. Turbidity meters can be used to estimate plankton density. River plumes that are rich in organic matter and suspended solids are clearly differentiated from the Lake Michigan water as they enter they lake.
Elevated turbidity can cause an increase in temperature since suspended particles absorb heat.
Reduction of light penetrating the water column due to turbidity can decrease the rate of photosynthesis. This, in turn, can decrease the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water. As suspended particles settle, they can impair the habitat needed for fish spawning and aquatic macroinvertebrates. They can also clog the gills of fish and the breathing apparatus of invertebrates. Particles serve as places of attachment for harmful microorganisms and toxic materials.