What is a major consequence of nitrogen fixation in ecology?

Nitrogen fixation plays a crucial role in ecology as it converts atmospheric nitrogen, which is not directly usable by most living organisms, into forms of nitrogen that are assimilable by plants, such as ammonia or nitrate. This process is primarily carried out by certain bacteria, including those in the root nodules of legumes and free-living soil bacteria. By supplying plants with these biologically available nitrogen forms, nitrogen fixation enhances plant growth and productivity, which in turn supports entire ecosystems.

Without this process, plants would struggle to obtain sufficient nitrogen, leading to limitations in growth and a cascading effect on herbivores and higher trophic levels. Consequently, nitrogen fixation is vital for maintaining the health and productivity of ecosystems, making it a key component of nutrient cycling in nature. While some options might refer to effects related to nitrogen in different contexts, the core consequence linked to nitrogen fixation remains focused on its ability to provide plants with the necessary nutrients for assimilation and growth.