Eutrophication is a process where water bodies, like lakes and rivers, become overly enriched with nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients often come from sources such as agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial waste. When nutrient levels rise, it can lead to excessive growth of algae, known as algal blooms, which can deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life.
As algal blooms die and decompose, they consume oxygen, creating "dead zones" where fish and other organisms cannot survive. This process disrupts the ecosystem and can lead to a decline in biodiversity. Managing nutrient inputs is essential to prevent eutrophication and protect water quality.