What does turbidity in water refer to?

Turbidity in water primarily refers to the presence of suspended particles, which can include a variety of materials such as soil, algae, and organic matter. These particles scatter and absorb light, making the water appear cloudy or murky. This cloudiness can have significant impacts on aquatic life, as high turbidity can reduce light penetration, affecting photosynthesis in aquatic plants and disrupting the habitat for fish and other organisms. Monitoring turbidity is essential in environmental management, especially when applying aquatic herbicides, as it can influence the effectiveness of these treatments and the overall health of the ecosystem.