Effect of Nitrogen on Aquatic Diversity

Medium Conflicting Viewpoints Comparing Hypotheses

In a recent study evaluating the effects of various pollutants on aquatic ecosystems, two environmental scientists, Dr. Green and Dr. Blue, presented conflicting hypotheses. Dr. Green hypothesizes that increased levels of nitrogen in water bodies lead to a significant decline in the diversity of aquatic species. On the other hand, Dr. Blue contends that higher nitrogen concentrations will not negatively affect species diversity but may actually promote the growth of certain species, particularly those capable of utilizing nitrogen efficiently. Both scientists conducted their experiments in similar freshwater habitats but with different concentrations of nitrogen and diverse sampling methods.

Based on their conflicting viewpoints, which of the following could be a possible outcome that aligns with one of the hypotheses?

Increased nitrogen levels resulted in an increase in overall species diversity.

A significant decline in the population of some sensitive aquatic species was recorded.

Species that thrive in high nutrient environments were completely absent.

Nitrogen levels had no detectable impact on the growth rates of aquatic plants.

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