Which of the following factors can enhance the proliferation of aquatic pests in waters affected by climate change?

Increasing nutrient load from runoff plays a significant role in enhancing the proliferation of aquatic pests, particularly invasive species and harmful algae blooms. When nutrient levels in water bodies rise—primarily due to fertilizers, agricultural runoff, and other pollutants—this can create an environment that is highly conducive to the growth and spread of these organisms.

Nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus serve as fertilizers for aquatic plants and algae, which can lead to algal blooms. These blooms can deplete oxygen in the water, create toxins, and disrupt local ecosystems, making it easier for certain pests to thrive.

While the other factors mentioned can impact aquatic environments, they do not necessarily contribute to the same level of proliferation of pests as nutrient loading does. For example, stable water temperatures might not encourage pest proliferation if other conditions are not favorable, and reduced rainfall can lead to lower nutrient input overall. Improved water clarity might even benefit certain organisms, but if nutrient levels are high, it can still lead to detrimental blooms dominated by pests. Hence, the link between increased nutrient loads and pest proliferation is well-established in the context of aquatic ecosystems affected by climate change.