Which concept explains why limiting nutrients can impact ecosystem productivity?

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Limiting nutrients are essential elements that are required for the growth of organisms in an ecosystem but are found in insufficient quantities. In the context of ecosystems, primary producers, such as plants and phytoplankton, rely on these nutrients to carry out photosynthesis and grow. When a specific nutrient, such as nitrogen or phosphorus, is in limited supply, the growth and productivity of these primary producers are hindered. This limitation has a cascading effect throughout the food web, as the primary producers form the base of the trophic pyramid and support all other trophic levels, including herbivores and carnivores.

When primary producers cannot thrive due to a lack of essential nutrients, the overall productivity of the ecosystem is reduced, leading to fewer available resources for other organisms. Therefore, the availability of these limiting nutrients is a critical factor in determining the productivity levels within various ecosystems. This concept is fundamental in ecological studies and helps to explain patterns of abundance and biodiversity observed in different environments.

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