What are two probable results of marsh degradation?

Choosing this option highlights the complex interrelationship between wetlands and their surrounding environments. Marshes play a critical role in water management and ecosystem health. When marshes degrade, their ability to absorb excess water diminishes, which can lead to severe flooding in the surrounding areas during heavy rain events.

Furthermore, the degradation of marshes can disrupt the natural cycles of nutrients. Healthy marshes filter and process nutrients before they enter larger water bodies; however, when marshes degrade, this filtration system collapses. The result is often an increase in nutrient runoff, which can lead to nutrient deposition in downstream waters. This can contribute to problems such as algal blooms, which further degrade water quality and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, the outcomes of severe flooding and nutrient deposition are very much aligned with what occurs when marsh ecosystems are compromised.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that do not correlate with marsh degradation; instead, they describe conditions that might occur in a healthy or restored marsh system.