Research Progress on the Characteristics of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Uptake by Ulva prolifera, the Dominant Macroalga Responsible for Green Tides in the Yellow Sea

The abnormal proliferation of Ulva in the Yellow Sea has instigated the notorious green tide phenomenon. Mitigating this ecological challenge necessitates a holistic comprehension of Ulva’s nitrogen and phosphorus uptake behaviors. Investigating the mechanisms governing nutrient absorption, encompassing factors like concentration, form, and input dynamics, has unveiled their profound influence on nutrient assimilation rates. The nutrient absorption characteristics of Ulva prolifera, including its preference for abundant nutrients, a high nitrogen-to-phosphorus (N/P) ratio, and its ability to efficiently absorb nutrients during pulse nutrient input events, determine its dominant role in the green tide events in the Yellow Sea. Although source control and preemptive salvaging are effective methods for managing green tides, addressing the root causes of these coastal ecological disasters requires the implementation of long-term pollution control strategies that align with sustainable development goals, with a priority on reducing marine eutrophication. This is crucial for the effective management and restoration of the coastal ecosystem in the Yellow Sea.