At what outdoor temperature range is algae growth most likely to occur?

Algae growth is most likely to occur in the temperature range of 80°F to 100°F due to several biological factors. Algae are simple photosynthetic organisms that thrive in warm, nutrient-rich environments. Temperatures within this range promote rapid growth and reproduction of algae, particularly because warmer water can hold less dissolved oxygen, fostering conditions that are favorable for algae over other aquatic plants.

Additionally, the presence of sunlight during this temperature range increases the photosynthetic activity of algae, further enhancing their growth. Nutrients from the environment, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, when combined with warm temperatures, create an ideal setting for algal blooms.

In contrast, at lower temperatures, such as those found in the 30°F - 50°F range, algae growth slows significantly because the metabolic processes of the algae become less efficient. While algae can survive and even grow at moderate temperatures like 60°F to 80°F, it is within the higher range of 80°F to 100°F that conditions are optimally aligned for rapid algal proliferation. At extreme high temperatures, such as those in the 100°F - 120°F range, while some algal species may still survive, other environmental factors such as decreased oxygen levels can hinder growth,