Why are Florida's waters considered naturally productive?

Florida's waters are considered naturally productive primarily due to the presence of abundant phosphate deposits in the underlying soils. These phosphate deposits contribute essential nutrients to the aquatic ecosystem, promoting the growth of phytoplankton and other foundational organisms within the food web. This nutrient-rich environment supports a diverse array of aquatic life, enhancing productivity in both freshwater and marine systems.

In contrast, while rainfall plays a significant role in freshwater availability, it is not the sole factor for aquatic productivity. Heavy fishing practices, although they do impact aquaculture and the population dynamics of fish species, do not directly contribute to the overall productivity of the waters. The unique aquatic plants certainly play a role in creating habitats and offering food sources, but the key factor here is the nutrient-enriched soils facilitating heightened levels of productivity in Florida's waters.