Answer:
The correct answer is:
increased growth of phytoplankton and hypoxic conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When fertilizer is added to an aquatic system, it provides an abundance of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients act as a type of "food" for phytoplankton, which are tiny aquatic plants. As a result, the phytoplankton population experiences rapid growth, leading to an increase in their numbers.
With the increased phytoplankton growth, the water may become turbid or cloudy due to the large population of these tiny plants. As the phytoplankton bloom, they consume oxygen during the process of respiration. This excessive consumption of oxygen can lead to a condition known as hypoxia, where oxygen levels in the water become critically low.
Hypoxia is harmful to aquatic life as many organisms, including fish and other marine species, require oxygen to survive. When oxygen levels drop too low, it can result in fish kills and negatively impact the entire aquatic ecosystem.
In addition to the hypoxic conditions, the excess phytoplankton can also lead to harmful algal blooms (HABs). Some species of phytoplankton produce toxins, which can be harmful to marine life and even humans if ingested through contaminated seafood or direct contact with the water.
The discharge event at Piney Point, Florida, involved the release of nutrient-rich water into Tampa Bay, which could cause an increase in phytoplankton growth and potentially lead to hypoxic conditions and harmful algal blooms. These consequences highlight the importance of managing and monitoring nutrient levels in aquatic systems to preserve water quality and protect the health of marine ecosystems.