Effect of Acid Rain on Aquatic Ecosystems in Northern Europe
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajns.2388Keywords:
Acid Rain, Aquatic EcosystemsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of acid rain on aquatic ecosystems in Northern Europe
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Acid rain significantly impacts aquatic ecosystems by altering water chemistry and harming aquatic life. When acid rain falls into lakes, rivers, and streams, it lowers the pH of the water, making it more acidic. This change can dissolve harmful metals like aluminum from surrounding soils, which then enter the water and further endanger aquatic organisms. Fish, in particular, are sensitive to these changes; acidic waters can impair their reproductive processes, reduce population sizes, and even lead to localized extinctions. Additionally, acid rain disrupts the food web by affecting primary producers such as algae and phytoplankton, leading to broader ecological imbalances. The cumulative effect is a decrease in biodiversity and a degradation of aquatic habitats, highlighting the critical need for strategies to mitigate acid rain and its consequences on aquatic environments.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Acid deposition theory, ecosystem resilience theory and trophic cascade theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the effect of acid rain on aquatic ecosystems in Northern Europe. On the practical front, there is a need for enhanced monitoring and data collection to effectively manage and mitigate the effects of acid rain. Comprehensive and long-term monitoring programs should be established to track changes in water chemistry. From a policy perspective, strengthening emission controls and regulations is essential to combat the impacts of acid rain.
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