AP Success - AP Biology Conceptual Analysis: Systems Interact - Ecology

In a freshwater lake ecosystem, there are several interacting species: algae (primary producers), zooplankton (primary consumers), small fish (secondary consumers), and large fish (tertiary consumers). The lake has recently been affected by eutrophication due to an influx of nutrients from a nearby agricultural runoff.

Describe the immediate and potential long-term effects of eutrophication on the lake ecosystem.

Explain how the concept of bottom-up control applies to this scenario.

Predict the potential effects on the lake ecosystem if the agricultural runoff continues unabated for the next decade.

Some ecologists claim that eutrophication can lead to a decrease in biodiversity in lake ecosystems. Justify this claim using the concept of bottom-up control and the data provided.