High nutrient levels in aquatic ecosystems generally lead to what issue?

High nutrient levels in aquatic ecosystems often lead to an increase in nutrient-rich conditions, particularly involving nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients can fuel the growth of certain organisms, notably filamentous algae. When there is an excess of these nutrients, filamentous algae can proliferate rapidly, leading to algal blooms.

These blooms can create a range of ecological issues. For one, they can choke out light penetration in the water, affecting other aquatic plants and disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. The dense growth of filamentous algae also can deplete oxygen levels, particularly when the algae die and decompose, leading to conditions harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Overall, this process negatively impacts biodiversity and the health of aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the significance of managing nutrient levels to prevent such imbalances.