What is acid shock primarily characterized by?

Acid shock is primarily characterized by a sudden influx of acidic water that leads to rapid changes in the pH of a water body. This phenomenon often occurs during events such as heavy rainfall following a dry period, where surface runoff can wash acidic pollutants into lakes, rivers, or streams. The abrupt decline in pH can harm aquatic organisms, as many species are sensitive to changes in acidity. Fish, amphibians, and other aquatic life may experience stress or mortality when the water becomes too acidic too quickly, disrupting the ecosystem balance.

This process highlights the importance of maintaining stable pH levels in aquatic environments, as even slight changes can have significant effects on species composition and overall water quality. Understanding acid shock is crucial for environmental management and conservation strategies aimed at protecting aquatic ecosystems from abrupt environmental changes.