Schep. I.L. (2012) How good is the scientific evidence that Harmful Algal Blooms are caused by non-native species and introduced by ballast water? Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.
|
Text
Bachelor_Thesis_Ivonne_Schep.pdf - Published Version Download (819kB) | Preview |
Abstract
Harmful algal blooms (HAB) are caused by several phytoplankton species worldwide. The reports on them have increased since the 1970s. The HAB causing species can be divided into two groups, toxic and non toxic. When HABs are caused by non-native species, they first have to be introduced first into the new area, this is described by propagule pressure. After the introduction the species needs to invade successful in order to become part of the new environment. What is left after that phase is the achievement to become dominant, only then can a new introduced algae cause a bloom. Ballast water is pointed out as a potential introduction vector, but there are other mechanisms as well that induce the forming of a HAB as well, those are be utilization, eutrophication and climate conditions. In this thesis, the focus will be on the data that is collected in several case studies which could prove that ballast water is the introduction vector of non-native algae, which could theoretically cause a HAB in the new environment. Four case studies will be analysed on their used methods, results and formed conclusions. The collected data turned out to be circumstantial evidence, no convincing evident was provided to prove that ballast water was indeed the introduction vector in these four cases.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis) |
|---|---|
| Degree programme: | Biology |
| Thesis type: | Bachelor's Thesis |
| Language: | English |
| Date Deposited: | 15 Feb 2018 07:50 |
| Last Modified: | 15 Feb 2018 07:50 |
| URI: | https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/10465 |
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |