Which nutrient is abundant in Florida soils and often limiting to plant growth in lakes?

Phosphorus is often the nutrient that is abundant in Florida's soils but can be limiting to plant growth in aquatic environments, such as lakes. This is primarily due to the dynamic interactions between phosphorus in the soil, water systems, and biological uptake. While Florida's soils may have relatively high levels of phosphorus, its availability in water systems can fluctuate due to various environmental factors, including sedimentation and microbial activity.

In lake ecosystems, phosphorus is a key driver of primary productivity, often determining the level of algal growth and aquatic plant development. If phosphorus becomes limited in the water, it can restrict the growth of vital organisms that form the base of the aquatic food web, despite being present in the surrounding soils. This phenomenon highlights the significance of phosphorus not just as an element, but as a critical factor for plant nutrition in freshwater systems, influencing overall aquatic health and biodiversity.