What is the consequence of high nutrient levels in an aquatic ecosystem?

High nutrient levels in an aquatic ecosystem, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, predominantly lead to the stimulation of algal blooms. These nutrients can originate from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, and other anthropogenic activities. When an excess of nutrients enters the water, they promote the rapid growth of algae, which can form extensive blooms.

These algal blooms can have several negative effects on the ecosystem. As the algae die and decompose, the process consume oxygen in the water, leading to hypoxic or anoxic conditions that can harm aquatic life. Additionally, some algal blooms produce toxins that can be harmful to fish, wildlife, and even human health.

In contrast, increased biodiversity, improved water clarity, and reduction in organic matter would typically not be a direct result of high nutrient levels. In fact, these options generally represent the opposite outcomes of a healthy aquatic ecosystem. High nutrient levels can harm biodiversity by creating conditions that favor certain species over others, reduce water clarity due to suspended algal material, and do not contribute to the reduction of organic matter, which is essential for the ecosystem’s health.