Turbidity is a measure of water clarity. Turbidity describes the amount of light scattered or blocked by suspended particles in a water sample-particularly sediment. Clear water has low turbidity and cloudy or murky water has a higher turbidity level. Turbidity affects the growth rate of algae (micro-aquatic plants) and other aquatic plants in streams and lakes because increased turbidity causes a decrease in the amount of light for photosynthesis. Turbidity can also increase water temperature because suspended particles absorb more heat. These factors lead to a decrease in dissolved oxygen. Turbidity can also affect how well aquatic life can see or function underwater. Excessive turbidity is known to clog the gills of fish, interfere with their ability to find food, and bury bottom dwelling creatures and eggs.
