What is one consequence of nutrient enrichment in aquatic ecosystems?

One consequence of nutrient enrichment in aquatic ecosystems is algal overgrowth. This phenomenon occurs when excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, enter water bodies—often from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, or stormwater. These nutrients promote the rapid growth of algae, leading to algal blooms.

Algal blooms can have severe ecological impacts. They can deplete dissolved oxygen levels in the water as the algae die and decompose, leading to hypoxic or anoxic conditions that can harm fish and other aquatic organisms. Some algal blooms produce toxins that can be harmful to wildlife and humans, further complicating the health of aquatic environments. Additionally, excessive algal growth can block sunlight from penetrating the water, disrupting photosynthesis in submerged aquatic plants and altering the overall ecosystem balance.

This process emphasizes the importance of managing nutrient loads in aquatic systems to prevent harmful algal blooms and maintain healthy ecosystems.