Which statement below most accurately describes the mechanism by which excess nitrogen loads entering water bodies can lead to very low dissolved oxygen concentrations in the water? – excess nitrogen loads chemically react with dissolved oxygen, making it unavailable for fish. – excess nitrogen enhances the growth of microbial communities, which respire much more, and as a result deplete dissolved oxygen in the water. Impact of Excess Nitrogen Loads on Water Bodies

Impact of Excess Nitrogen Loads on Water Bodies

Excess nitrogen loads are known to have a negative effect on water bodies, leading to very low dissolved oxygen concentrations. This is due to several factors, including chemical reactions between nitrogen and dissolved oxygen, as well as enhanced growth of microbial communities. Excess nitrogen also enhances the growth of algae, which consume oxygen through photosynthesis. This can further reduce the amount of oxygen available to other organisms, such as fish (Ernesto et al., 2017). Once the algae dies, the consumption of its biomass by microbes can lead to even more oxygen depletion due to their respiration (Virmani et al., 2020). All of these factors can lead to hypoxia, or extremely low oxygen levels, which can be detrimental to the health of aquatic species. In conclusion, excess nitrogen loads can lead to very low dissolved oxygen concentrations in water bodies, due to chemical reactions with oxygen, increased growth of microbial communities, and increased algae growth and respiration. This can lead to hypoxic zones, or areas with very low oxygen levels, which can be detrimental to aquatic species. It is important to monitor and manage nitrogen loads in order to prevent hypoxia from occurring and preserve the health of… Cont…