What can excessive nitrogen levels in water lead to?

Excessive nitrogen levels in water can lead to significant environmental issues, particularly the proliferation of algae growth, known as algal blooms. When nitrogen is abundant, it serves as a nutrient that fuels the rapid growth of algae and other aquatic plants. This process can disrupt ecosystems as the excessive growth of algae can block sunlight from reaching other aquatic plants, deplete oxygen levels in the water as the algae die and decompose, and create toxic conditions for fish and other marine life.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for managing water quality and maintaining healthy aquatic environments. Other options, such as increased soil fertility or improved crop yield, may seem beneficial but do not accurately reflect the consequences of excessive nitrogen in water. Furthermore, while nitrogen can influence soil pH, the relationship is more complex, and excessive nitrogen in water typically leads to negative effects rather than a straightforward reduction in soil pH.