As an expert in environmental science, I can explain that tolerance limits in this context refer to the maximum levels of various pollutants or contaminants that an ecosystem can withstand without experiencing significant adverse effects on its structure, function, or the health of its organisms.

Environmental scientists establish these limits by studying the effects of different substances on various species and ecosystems. They take into account the natural variability and resilience of the environment, as well as the potential for long-term damage. Tolerance limits are crucial for setting regulations and guidelines to protect the environment and public health.

For example, tolerance limits might be set for pollutants like heavy metals in water bodies, where exceeding these levels can lead to toxic effects on aquatic life and, subsequently, on humans who rely on these water sources.

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The single environmental factor closest to a tolerance limit for a given species at a given time. Species whose critical tolerance limits can be used to judge environmental conditions. The place or set of environmental conditions in which a particular organism lives.read more >>