But Australia's aquatic ecosystems have been affected by such things as the damming of rivers and the introduction of pests like European carp. A damaged ecosystem may be less able to cope with the effects of algal blooms. Watering down the resource Toxic algal blooms are symptomatic of a broader land and water management problem in Australia. Although our waterways are our most precious resource, for decades we have been using them as a waste disposal unit. At the same time, exotic pests have invaded almost every pond, dams and drainage systems have altered natural flow patterns, and river banks have become severely eroded.
Science can certainly help.
We are still learning, but already scientists have developed techniques to help deal with the toxic algal blooms. Research into the primary sources of excess phosphorus and nitrogen in our waterways has led to the development of improved land management practices. The detergent industry has also reduced the amount of phosphorus in its products. Stirred, not shaken Other techniques to minimise algal blooms have been surfacing. During calm, sunny periods, a warm surface layer develops in water-bodies.