The Nitrogen-Phosphorus Threshold Theory

The Nitrogen-Phosphorus Threshold Theory explains how nutrient levels influence lake health. When nitrogen and phosphorus are low, lakes can support a balanced ecosystem with clear water and diverse plant life. However, once these nutrients reach high levels (above certain thresholds), they promote excessive algae growth, leading to algal blooms. These blooms reduce oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life, causing the lake to become less healthy. In essence, maintaining nitrogen and phosphorus levels below specific thresholds helps preserve clear, healthy lakes, while exceeding them risks ecological imbalance and water quality deterioration.