Multiple choice Humans’ release of excess phosphates into lakes and rivers can result in the poisoning of herbivores phosphate-based gases depleting the ozone layer acid rain the overgrowth of aquatic bacteria and algae Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself D Correct answer Explanation Phosphates are limiting nutrients in aquatic ecosystems. Excess phosphate runoff causes eutrophication, leading to rapid, uncontrolled growth of algae and bacteria.