phytoplankton bloom

A phytoplankton bloom is a rapid increase in the population of microscopic plants (phytoplankton) in water bodies, such as oceans and lakes. This phenomenon often occurs when conditions are ideal, including ample sunlight, nutrients (like phosphorus and nitrogen), and warm temperatures. While these blooms can support marine life by providing food, they can also lead to problems. Some blooms produce toxins harmful to aquatic life and humans, and excessive growth can deplete oxygen in the water, causing "dead zones" where most marine organisms cannot survive. Thus, phytoplankton blooms can have both positive and negative ecological impacts.