Question

What is the impact of water pollution on plants?

Answer 1

The release of harmful substances that deteriorate water quality is called water pollution. It hinders the natural functioning of aquatic ecosystems and can subsequently affect the terrestrial ecosystems as well. Various sources of water pollution are organic wastes, chemicals, pathogens, radioactive wastes, etc.

Complete answer:
The various effects of water pollution on plants are as follows:
- Phytotoxicity: It occurs when the plants absorb harmful chemical pollutants dissolved in water through its roots. It can lead to poisoning. It leads to growth retardation in plants.
- Water pollution can lead to increased levels of nutrients including sodium and potassium leading to eutrophication. The process stimulates the growth of algae. And these algae compete with plants for nutrients and can lead to nutrient deficiency in plants.
- When industries release heated water into water bodies from thermal power plants, it increases the temperature of the water bodies and disrupts the natural habitat of aquatic plants. It leads to reduced enzymatic functioning in plants.
- The release of organic wastes into water products change the pH of the water bodies causing toxicity to the plants absorbing polluted water.
- The Release of detergents that contain phosphates into water bodies result in phosphate enrichment. On absorbing phosphate- enriched water by the plants it results in growth retardation, cell destruction, etc.
- In the agricultural sector, contaminated water can lead to a poor yield of crops, as well as its low quality and quantity.

Note: It is very important to manage water pollution to prevent further deteriorating effects. Proper treatment of wastes which are expelled into the water bodies should be practiced. As well as reduced usage of chemical fertilizers also decrease the pollution levels. Avoid dumping of radioactive wastes into water bodies.