Question

Explain BOD and its effects on aquatic ecosystem.

Answer 1

1. The amount of dissolved oxygen required by microorganisms to decompose organic matter in water is referred to as BOD (Biochemical or Biological Oxygen Demand).
2. This is measured chemically and given in milligrams of oxygen per litre (mg/L) of water.
3. When the BOD of water is high, it means the water is heavily polluted with decomposing organic waste.
4. High BOD levels indicate that the water is not potable since it is contaminated with microbes and organic waste. Waters with elevated BOD levels will also kill native aquatic creatures.
5. Lower BOD levels, on the other hand, can attest to cleaner water.
6. BOD is an indicator of a polluted ecosystem.