What is a potential consequence of pesticide runoff into waterways?

Pesticide runoff into waterways can have severe harmful consequences for aquatic life. When pesticides enter these water systems, they can be toxic to fish, amphibians, and other organisms that inhabit them. Many pesticides disrupt important biological functions, potentially leading to mortality or the disruption of reproduction and growth processes in these aquatic species. Additionally, pesticides can alter the chemical balance of water bodies, leading to harmful algal blooms, which further affect the ecosystem and can lead to the death of more aquatic organisms.

In contrast, options like decreased nutrient levels, increased biodiversity, and enhanced water taste do not accurately reflect typical outcomes associated with pesticide runoff. Rather, the runoff can result in nutrient loading, which might contribute to eutrophication and subsequently harm biodiversity, rather than enhance it. Therefore, the potential harm to aquatic life is a clear and significant consequence of pesticide runoff, making it the correct answer.