19-Mar-2026 Theme: 'Algae'

(1) Which nutrient is most commonly responsible for triggering freshwater harmful algal blooms (HABs)?

Answer: Phosphorus.

(2) Which feature makes microalgae attractive for biofuel production?

Answer: High lipid content and rapid growth.

(3) Satellite monitoring of algal blooms most commonly relies on detecting changes in: a) Water temperature only. 2) Light reflectance related to pigments. c) Atmospheric nitrogen levels. d) Ocean salinity.

Answer: b) Light reflectance related to pigments.

(4) South Australia has been experiencing a large marine algal bloom since March 2025. Which group of algae is primarily responsible?

Answer: Dinoflagellates (Karenia).

(5) Which edible seaweed species commonly used in sushi belongs to the red algae group?

Answer: Porphyra (nori).

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