If herbicides are spilled in a lake, what impact might this have on fish populations?

The answer indicating that fish populations would be harmed due to a lack of plants for food is accurate because herbicides are designed to kill plants. Aquatic plants serve as essential habitat and food sources for many fish species, especially during certain growth stages or in ecological niches. If herbicides are introduced into a lake, they can lead to a significant reduction in plant life, disrupting the entire ecosystem.

The loss of plants can result in decreased oxygen levels in the water, altered sediment structures, and increased water temperatures, all of which can negatively affect fish populations. Additionally, many fish rely on insects and smaller organisms that inhabit or feed on these plants, meaning the decline in plant abundance can also diminish food availability for fish. Consequently, the overall health of the fish population would likely decline due to these combined impacts on their environment and food sources.