What is the main cause of turbidity in water?

The main cause of turbidity in water is associated with suspended clay particles. Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid caused by large numbers of individual particles that are generally invisible to the naked eye. These particles can include sediments, silt, and clay, which can remain suspended in the water column and scatter light, leading to reduced clarity.

Suspended clay particles are particularly impactful because they are small enough to remain in suspension for extended periods, increasing the level of turbidity. The presence of these fine particles can significantly affect aquatic ecosystems, blocking light penetration and disrupting photosynthesis in aquatic plants.

In contrast, while suspended organic matter can contribute to turbidity, it is often less significant than the contribution from suspended clay particles. Excess nutrients can lead to algal blooms that may result in turbidity, but they do not directly cause it in the same manner as clay particles do. Similarly, an increased fish population may affect water quality and ecosystem dynamics, but it is not a direct cause of turbidity. Understanding the primary contributors like suspended clay particles is crucial for managing water quality effectively.