Water Pollution & Plant Life

Water pollution can have substantial impact on plant life in an area.

Water pollution is an issue that involves every living thing, for we are all dependent on water to survive. Pollution can have the strongest effects on plant life, however, and these effects are often the earliest sign of contamination.

Toxic Spills

One of the most common forms of water pollution is the introduction of toxins, such as pesticides, into the environment. These can kill plant life directly as well as leach into the water table.

Organic Pollution

Sewage runoff and other organic matter can alter the nutrient levels in a body of water, causing bacteria or algae to multiply. This can alter the oxygen content of the water and kill not only plants but animals as well.

Sediment

Runoff from mining operations can fill waterways with sediment, cutting off water and drying out wetlands.

pH Levels

Pollution can also alter the pH of water, making it more acidic or more alkaline. Many species of plants thrive only in certain conditions, and a large shift in pH can kill them off or stunt their growth.

Chain Reactions

In some cases, subtle sources of pollution might not kill off large plants, but might affect micro-organisms and throw off the natural balance over time.

References

• University of Michigan: Water Pollution and Society
• Missouri Botanical Gardens: Water Pollution