What is eutrophication?

Eutrophication refers to the phenomenon characterized by an excessive enrichment of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, in a body of water, which can lead to an algal bloom. This enrichment often results from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, or other sources of nutrient pollution. When these nutrients accumulate, they promote the rapid growth of algae, which can then cover the surface of the water. This algal bloom can block sunlight from reaching aquatic plants, disrupting the ecosystem and leading to negative consequences such as decreased oxygen levels when the algae die and decompose. Thus, understanding eutrophication is crucial in aquatic ecology and environmental management, as it highlights the impact of nutrient loading on water quality and ecosystem health. The other options do not capture the essence or direct implications of eutrophication as accurately as this one does.