Algal Bloom Model Research Articles

Application of an Algal Bloom Model (BLOOM II) to combat eutrophication

The objective of the Algal Bloom Model (BLOOM II) is to predict the highest steady state value of the total biomass of all phytoplankton species in specified circumstances. Its calculations are usually on a weekly basis. Linear programming is being used to calculate the bloom, that may be constrained by the amounts of three nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and silicon) and light. Given a set of environmental conditions, the model will choose the optimal species composition among all species in the model (presently more than 10). The model has been calibrated for 3 model reservoirs and has been applied to about 15 different lakes in the Netherlands with highly different nutrient concentrations, background extinctions and mixing depths (from 1.2 to 15.0 m). Calculated biomass maxima, converted to microgram chlorophyll per litre vary from 50 to 600 and are remarkably close to the observations. Generally the model indicates the limiting factor(s) correctly; often also the species composition is correct. BLOOM II has been used to simulate the effects of changes in nutrient concentrations, mixing depths and flushing rates, among others, on the size, composition and time of the phytoplankton blooms, but so far little data are available to validate these predictions.