What effect does species loss have on surface water quality?

Species loss can significantly impact surface water quality by leading to ecological imbalance. Each species within an ecosystem, particularly those that inhabit aquatic environments, plays a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of that ecosystem. When species are lost, it disrupts food webs, alters nutrient cycling, and affects the overall health of the aquatic system.

For instance, the loss of keystone species—organisms that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment—can lead to overpopulation of certain species, resulting in excessive algal blooms that consume oxygen in the water, creating dead zones where fish and other aquatic organisms cannot survive. This imbalance can lead to decreased water quality, impairing the ecosystem's ability to support diverse life forms.

Furthermore, species loss can increase pollution levels in water bodies. Certain organisms are essential for processing pollutants and maintaining water quality through their roles in decomposition and nutrient uptake. Without these species, pollution may accumulate, leading to more severe water quality issues.

Overall, the interplay between species diversity and ecosystem health is crucial, and loss of species undermines this balance, demonstrating a clear link between species loss and deterioration in surface water quality.