What is a common effect of improper pesticide application in aquatic environments?

Contamination of drinking water supplies is a common effect of improper pesticide application in aquatic environments. When pesticides are applied incorrectly, they can run off into nearby water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. This runoff can lead to the introduction of harmful chemicals into drinking water sources, posing significant risks to both human health and aquatic ecosystems.

When pesticides are improperly used, factors such as the timing of application, weather conditions, and incorrect dosages can result in unintended dispersion of these chemicals. The presence of pesticides in drinking water can lead to severe health issues, including neurological problems, developmental delays in children, and other long-term health concerns.

In contrast, options involving increased fish populations, enhanced growth of aquatic plants, and improved water clarity suggest positive outcomes that typically do not result from improper pesticide use. In fact, the opposite is often true: pesticides can harm fish populations by causing toxicity and disrupting reproductive cycles, while excessive nutrients from agricultural runoff can lead to algal blooms, reducing water clarity and harming aquatic plant life.