What nutrient commonly found in lakes is often limiting to plant growth in Florida?

Phosphorous is often the limiting nutrient for plant growth in Florida's lakes. Many freshwater systems in the region already contain sufficient levels of nitrogen, making phosphorous a critical factor that can restrict plant growth. This is particularly significant in aquatic systems where an excess of nutrients can lead to harmful algal blooms and other ecological imbalances.

In Florida, the conditions in lakes often result in high levels of nitrogen due to runoff from agricultural practices, urban areas, and septic systems. However, without adequate phosphorous, aquatic plants and algae cannot thrive, which underscores its importance.

Additionally, the other options, such as fluorine and argon, do not play significant roles in aquatic plant nutrition and growth, thereby reinforcing that phosphorous is indeed a key limiting nutrient in these environments. Understanding this principle is crucial for managing aquatic ecosystems effectively and applying appropriate control measures for aquatic weeds.