Question

1. what is one example of a limiting nutrient, and how can it affect an ecosystem?

Explanation:

A limiting nutrient is a substance whose availability limits the growth of organisms in an ecosystem. Phosphorus is a common example. In aquatic ecosystems, when phosphorus levels increase (e.g., from runoff carrying fertilizers), it can cause excessive growth of algae (algal blooms). This can lead to oxygen depletion (as algae die and decompose, consuming oxygen) which harms fish and other aquatic life.

Answer:

One example of a limiting nutrient is phosphorus. In aquatic ecosystems, an increase in phosphorus (e.g., from fertilizer runoff) can cause algal blooms. As the algae die and decompose, oxygen is consumed, leading to oxygen - depleted waters (hypoxia) that can kill fish and other aquatic organisms.