Algal blooms in lakes and reservoirs: mechanisms, challenges, and management strategies.

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are increasingly prevalent in freshwater ecosystems due to human activities and global warming. These blooms present severe environmental and public health risks, including the contamination of drinking water and the production of toxins harmful to humans and animals. Effective management requires a deep understanding of HAB formation mechanisms to transition from reactive treatment to proactive prevention. While nutrients, light, and temperature are recognized drivers, hydrodynamic conditions such as turbulence, flow velocity, and shear stress have gained significant research attention for their role in bloom dynamics. This study explores how these physical factors influence algal proliferation and highlights the utility of the CE-QUAL-W2 (a two-dimensional hydrodynamic and water quality model) for predictive management. Furthermore, it evaluates sustainable operational strategies, such as horizontal flushing and selective withdrawal, to control blooms in reservoirs. By integrating hydrodynamic modeling with innovative management practices, this research aims to provide a roadmap for advancing HAB control and guiding future ecological studies.