What do high concentrations of ammonia lead to in aquatic environments?

High concentrations of ammonia in aquatic environments lead to fish toxicity due to the harmful effects it has on aquatic life. Ammonia can exist in two forms: unionized ammonia (NH3) and ionized ammonium (NH4+). The unionized form is particularly toxic to fish even at relatively low concentrations. When ammonia levels rise, fish may experience physiological stress, leading to symptoms such as reduced growth rates, impaired immune function, and in severe cases, death.

This toxicity occurs because ammonia can interfere with the fish's ability to regulate their internal environment, particularly through disrupting their osmoregulatory processes. Elevated ammonia levels can also impair the function of gill tissues, leading to suffocation and further stress.

Understanding the implications of ammonia concentration is crucial for managing water quality in aquatic environments, as maintaining a safe level is essential for the health of fish populations and overall ecosystem balance.