Why is too much phosphorus in lakes a problem?

Phosphorus is an essential element for DNA and can be added to lake water to promote the growth of algae and bacteria. This process depletes the dissolved oxygen in the water, which causes fish and other organisms to perish. Additionally, the death of the bacteria and algae causes the lake to smell.

Too much phosphorus in lakes is a problem because it can lead to eutrophication. Eutrophication is a process where excessive nutrients, such as phosphorus, stimulate the growth of algae and aquatic plants in a body of water. As these organisms grow and die, they consume oxygen during decomposition, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels in the water. This reduction in oxygen can harm fish and other aquatic organisms, leading to fish kills and disruptions in the ecosystem. Additionally, the excessive growth of algae and aquatic plants can block sunlight from reaching deeper parts of the lake, further reducing oxygen levels and affecting the overall health of the aquatic ecosystem.