What environmental impact can result from an imbalance in nutrient cycling?

An imbalance in nutrient cycling can lead to water pollution, particularly through the process of eutrophication. When nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, are overapplied to agricultural lands or improperly managed in waste systems, they can runoff into nearby water bodies. This surplus of nutrients in the water stimulates excessive growth of algae, leading to algal blooms. These blooms can deplete oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic life and leading to dead zones where most organisms cannot survive. This deterioration of water quality illustrates how nutrient cycling must be balanced to maintain healthy ecosystems and mitigate pollution issues.

In contrast, increased biodiversity generally results from balanced ecosystems where nutrient cycling supports diverse species and their interactions. Soil enrichment can occur when nutrients are returned to the soil effectively, promoting plant health. Similarly, improvements in air quality typically emerge from balanced ecosystems that help regulate atmospheric gases, rather than from imbalances that lead to nutrient runoff and subsequent pollution impacts. Therefore, understanding the pivotal role of nutrient cycling in preventing water pollution reveals the critical relationship between nutrient management and environmental health.