How can contaminated water affect plants and animals?

Contaminated water can injure plants and animals directly due to the presence of harmful pollutants and toxins. When plants uptake water that is contaminated, they can absorb harmful substances which may disrupt their physiological processes, inhibit growth, or even lead to death. Similarly, animals that come into contact with or consume contaminated water may suffer from acute poisoning or long-term health effects, including reproductive issues, immune system dysfunction, or internal organ damage. The impact of water contamination highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems, where the health of one component can significantly affect others.