What is an effect of over-fertilization on soil health?

Over-fertilization has a significant detrimental effect on soil health, most notably leading to decreased soil biodiversity. When excessive nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, are introduced into the soil, it can create an imbalance that favors certain species of plants and microorganisms at the expense of others. This imbalance can reduce the variety of organisms present in the soil, including beneficial bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that contribute to nutrient cycling, soil structure, and overall ecosystem health.

When soil biodiversity is compromised, it can hinder the natural processes that support plant growth and health, such as decomposition, nutrient availability, and disease resistance. In a healthy soil ecosystem, a diverse range of organisms works synergistically to maintain soil fertility and function. Over-fertilization disrupts this balance, leading to sterile or less productive soil environments that can negatively impact agricultural productivity in the long term.

In contrast, improved crop yields, increased water retention, and enhanced soil texture are not typically outcomes of over-fertilization. Instead, these outcomes are more correctly associated with balanced nutrient management practices that promote healthy soil ecosystems. Thus, the correct effect of over-fertilization is the reduction in soil biodiversity, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to nutrient management.