Prediction of Algal‐Available Phosphorus in Runoff Suspensions

Authors:
  • PHP. J. Huettl
    P. J. Huettl
  • RWR. C. Wendt
    R. C. Wendt
  • RCR. B. Corey
    R. B. Corey

Abstract
Methods for estimating the potential availability of sediment‐P forms are desirable for better assessment of the impact of runoff waters on surface water quality. The P sorbed by resin‐affixed hydroxy‐aluminum equilibrating with simulated sediment suspensions was evaluated for use as a routine means of estimating relative availability of P. A highly significant relationship (r = 0.98**, n = 5) was found between availability estimated by resin extraction and that determined by bioassay. For the soils tested, resin‐extractable P averaged 98% of that found to be available to algae by bioassay.