What is meant by nutrient limitation?

Nutrient limitation refers to a situation where a particular nutrient in an ecosystem becomes insufficient to support the growth and development of organisms dependent on it. Nutrient limitation can occur due to a variety of factors, including deficiency in the availability of certain inorganic nutrients, organic matter, and essential elements, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. When nutrient limitation occurs, it can affect the productivity, diversity, and stability of the ecosystem, leading to changes in ecological processes like nutrient cycling and energy flow. Nutrient limitations can bring challenges to the management of natural resources, agricultural productivity, ecosystem conservation, and restoration.