🔬 Part 1: Understanding Algae Blooms

1. What is an algae bloom?

A flower that grows in water

The rapid growth of algae in water

A type of fish disease

Clean, clear water

2. Which of these are causes of algae blooms? (Check all that apply)

Nutrient runoff from farms

Warm water temperatures

Clean mountain air

Excess fertilisers in water

Stagnant (still) water

3. What effects can algae blooms have on lake ecosystems?

4. How likely is an algae bloom to occur in a lake with high nutrient levels and warm temperatures?

Impossible

Unlikely

Likely

Certain

📊 Part 2: Water Quality Data Analysis

Your group collected the following water quality data from Lake Taupo:

Water Temperature: 24°C | Turbidity (cloudiness): High | Nutrient Level: High

5. Based on this data, what is the probability of an algae bloom occurring?

The chance of an algae bloom is _________________ because _________________________

____________________________________________________________________

6. Draw a simple bar graph showing water temperature readings from three different lakes:

Lake A: 18°C | Lake B: 24°C | Lake C: 15°C

7. Which lake from your graph above would be MOST likely to develop an algae bloom? Explain your answer.

8. Look at your group's data. Is there enough evidence to conclude that this lake has a water quality problem? Explain why or why not.

🌱 Part 3: Protecting Our Lakes

9. As kaitiaki (guardians) of our environment, list three practical actions people can take to prevent algae blooms in lakes:

1. ________________________________________________________________

2. ________________________________________________________________

3. ________________________________________________________________

10. A farmer says: "My fertiliser use doesn't affect the lake because my farm is 2 kilometres away." Do you agree or disagree? Explain your reasoning.

11. Reflection: How can you personally help protect New Zealand's lakes and waterways?

Algae Blooms Investigation

Algae Blooms Investigation

🔬 Part 1: Understanding Algae Blooms

📊 Part 2: Water Quality Data Analysis

🌱 Part 3: Protecting Our Lakes

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