Harmful Algal Bloom

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-012858",
  "term": "Harmful Algal Bloom",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. A harmful algal bloom (HAB)can occur when certain types of microscopic algae grow quickly in water, forming visible patches that may harm the health of the environment, plants, or animals. HABs can deplete the oxygen and block the sunlight that other organisms need to live, and some HAB-causing algae release toxins that are dangerous to animals and humans. HABs can occur in marine, estuarine, and fresh waters, and HABs appear to be increasing along the coastlines and in the surface waters of the United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).\n\n2. An algae bloom that produces chemicals toxic to humans and aquatic life.\n\n3. Overgrowths of algae in water. Some produce dangerous toxins in fresh or marine water, but even nontoxic blooms hurt the environment and local economies.",
  "abbreviation": "HAB",
  "references": [
    "CDC Harmful Algal Blooms at http://www.cdc.gov/hab/about.htm",
    "Chesapeake Bay Glossary",
    "NSTEPS Online Glossary of Terms"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/harmful-algal-bloom/"
}