What is a major consequence of increased growth of toxic algae blooms in the Great Lakes?

The growth of toxic algae blooms in the Great Lakes is a significant environmental issue, primarily due to its impact on oxygen levels in the water. As algae proliferate, they consume nutrients rapidly, and when they die, their decomposition by bacteria consumes a substantial amount of dissolved oxygen. This process can lead to hypoxic (low oxygen) or anoxic (no oxygen) conditions in the water, which are detrimental to aquatic life, including fish and other organisms that require oxygen to survive.

When the oxygen levels drop, it can result in fish kills, limit the habitats available for aquatic species, and disrupt the overall balance of the ecosystem. Furthermore, the presence of these blooms can also lead to the production of harmful toxins that affect both aquatic life and human health. Therefore, the depletion of oxygen levels is a major consequence associated with the proliferation of toxic algae blooms in the Great Lakes.