Which of the following is a consequence of soil erosion?

Soil erosion leads to the removal of the top layer of soil, which is often the most nutrient-rich and biologically active layer. When this topsoil is eroded, it results in a significant loss of essential nutrients that are crucial for plant growth. This nutrient depletion can diminish the overall fertility of the land, making it less productive for agriculture and natural vegetation. Additionally, the loss of topsoil can lead to problems such as reduced water retention capabilities of the soil, further exacerbating the negative impact on plant health and landscape stability. Therefore, recognizing the consequences of soil erosion, particularly the loss of topsoil and nutrients, highlights its detrimental effect on the ecosystem and agricultural viability.