What is one impact of overfishing on aquatic ecosystems?

One significant impact of overfishing on aquatic ecosystems is the decline of certain species. Overfishing occurs when fish are caught at a rate that exceeds their capacity to reproduce, leading to a decrease in their populations. This decline can disrupt the balance of the entire ecosystem, as each species plays a critical role in its environment. For instance, the reduction of a keystone species can have cascading effects on other species and the overall health of the ecosystem.

In many cases, the removal of key fish species, particularly predators, can lead to an increase in the populations of their prey species, which can further alter the ecosystem dynamics. The decline of certain species can also lead to reduced genetic diversity and resilience within fish populations, making them more vulnerable to changes in the environment and other stressors.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of overfishing. While some fish populations might temporarily increase due to a reduction in competition, over time the overall imbalance created by removing large numbers of fish leads to negative effects on biodiversity and nutrient cycling.