Phosphorus and nitrogen are essentials to all living
organisms. In aquatic ecosystems with mild and temperate climates,
the ratio is usually 1 P to every 16 N. The main reason for the
difference between the two is their relative abundance (nitrogen
more than phosphorus) in the earth's atmosphere. But, in hot and
arid climates, this reverses as nitrogen is kept more in its gas
phase leaving phosphorus in a more plentiful supply. By knowing how
the ratio works, scientists can figure out which nutrient is
limiting. In turn, they can then use this knowledge towards their
water management programs.
|
Depth (in meters) |
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June 6, 1998 |
5.77 |
7.96 |
6.71 (at 2 meters) |
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June 13, 1998 |
N / A |
N / A |
N / A |
|
June 20, 1998 |
8.31 |
9.25 |
9.04 |
|
June 26, 1998 |
10.72 |
10.92 |
8.16 |
|
July 2, 1998 |
12.51 |
12.06 |
14.54 |
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July 10, 1998 |
9.68 |
10.24 |
6.80 |
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July 21, 1998 |
9.31 |
8.64 |
5.56 |
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July 28, 1998 |
11.94 |
10.14 |
9.81 |
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August 8, 1998 |
3.98 |
7.60 |
N / A |
|
August 25, 1998 |
4.57 |
4.54 |
3.45 |
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