The Model of Nutrient Limitation

The Model of Nutrient Limitation explains how the availability of specific nutrients, like nitrogen or phosphorus, controls the growth of organisms such as plants or algae. When a particular nutrient is in short supply relative to others, it limits growth because the organism cannot complete essential processes without it. Once the limiting nutrient is added or becomes more available, growth increases until another nutrient becomes limiting. This model helps us understand the balance needed in ecosystems and informs practices like agriculture and environmental management to promote healthy, sustainable growth.