What role does dissolved oxygen play in aquatic ecosystems?

Dissolved oxygen is crucial for the survival of aerobic organisms, which depend on oxygen to respire and generate energy. Aquatic life, such as fish, invertebrates, and microorganisms, relies on dissolved oxygen to breathe and perform vital metabolic functions. In many aquatic ecosystems, sufficient levels of dissolved oxygen are necessary to maintain healthy populations of these organisms.

When dissolved oxygen levels drop, often due to pollution or excessive nutrient loading that leads to algal blooms, aerobic organisms can experience stress, leading to decreased growth, reproduction, and even mortality. Thus, maintaining an appropriate level of dissolved oxygen is essential for the balance and productivity of aquatic ecosystems, directly influencing biodiversity and the overall health of the water body.