Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What is the best strategy to control excessive algae growth in a facultative pond?

1. Regular aeration

2. Enhancing nutrient levels

3. Increasing light penetration

4. Maintaining a balanced ecosystem

The correct answer is: Maintaining a balanced ecosystem

Maintaining a balanced ecosystem is crucial for controlling excessive algae growth in a facultative pond. In such environments, the interaction between different organisms, including algae, bacteria, aquatic plants, and potentially even fish, plays a significant role in nutrient cycling and overall pond health. A balanced ecosystem can help keep nutrient levels in check, as an overabundance of nutrients—often from runoff or other sources—can lead to algae blooms. When the ecosystem is balanced, beneficial organisms can outcompete algae for light and nutrients. This can involve the presence of healthy aquatic plants that absorb nutrients and provide shade, which limits light that algae need to proliferate. Moreover, the microbial population works to decompose organic matter, thereby reducing nutrient levels available for algae growth. In contrast, options like regular aeration or enhancing nutrient levels could disturb this balance or contribute to conditions that favor algae rather than suppressing it. Increasing light penetration can exacerbate algae growth if the other factors are not in equilibrium, as more light enables algae to thrive. Therefore, maintaining a balanced ecosystem directly addresses the root causes of excessive algae by providing a stable environment that naturally limits their growth.