Turbidity

Turbidity is a measure of cloudiness in water. Suspended materials involve soil particles (clay, silt and sand), algae, plankton, microbes and other substances. Turbidity could be caused through soil erosion, waste discharge, urban runoff and algal growth. A turbid water become warmer as suspended particles absorb heat from sunlight that causing oxygen levels to fall. Warm water carries less oxygen than cooler water. Photosynthesis reduces along with lesser light, resulting in even lower oxygen stages. Suspended solids within turbid water can clog fish gills, decrease growth rates, decrease resistance to disease and avoid egg and larval development. Settled particles smother eggs of fish and aquatic insects. Turbidity could be meaningful as an indicator of the effects of runoff from construction, logging activity, agricultural practices, discharges and other sources.