Excessive nutrients in the chesapeake bay foster the growth of algae, which robs the aquatic life of sunlight and oxygen. the main reason for the overabundance of nutrients is an increase in

In agriculture, fertilizers are commonly used. But when they reach the bay, they could be cause of escessive nutrients. Algae use the presence of increased nutrients and enhance their own growth. It is known that they produce an oxygen in the photosynthesis, so it is not a problem while they are still alive. But when these organisms die, their decomposition begins. For the process of decomposition, the oxygen is needed and ultimately it will be depleted from a body of water. This will lead to the death of aquatic animals that depend on oxygen.

the answer is:

carbon dioxide