Aquatic Ecosystems are Least Likely to Be Limited by Which

Question

Aquatic ecosystems are least likely to be limited by which of the following nutrients?
A) nitrogen
B) carbon
C) phosphorus
D) iron
E) zinc

Accepted Answer

Aquatic ecosystems are least likely to be limited by carbon as it is the most abundant element in the environment and is readily available for primary producers through carbon dioxide dissolved in water. Nitrogen and phosphorus, on the other hand, are often limiting factors in aquatic ecosystems, while iron and zinc are also essential but required in much lower amounts.