Which process is linked to both bioaccumulation and biomagnification?

The process linked to both bioaccumulation and biomagnification is the concentration of toxins increasing through the food chain. Bioaccumulation refers to the gradual accumulation of substances, such as pesticides or heavy metals, in an organism over time. When an organism takes in these harmful substances faster than it can eliminate them, the concentration of toxins builds up in its body.

Biomagnification occurs when these toxic substances are transferred from one trophic level to another in the food chain. As predators consume prey that have accumulated toxins, the concentration of these harmful substances becomes even greater in higher trophic levels. For example, small fish may ingest toxins from the water and, when larger fish eat several smaller fish, the toxin concentration increases in the larger fish. This process continues up the food chain, affecting top predators, including humans.

This understanding highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on biological systems, emphasizing the need for environmental protection and awareness of how pollutants can affect wildlife and human health.