What role do decomposers play in the phosphorus cycle?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the function and importance of decomposers in the phosphorus cycle, including how they contribute to the recycling of nutrients.
Answer
Decomposers return phosphorus into the soil and water.
Decomposers return phosphorus into the soil and water, allowing plants to absorb this essential nutrient.
Answer for screen readers
Decomposers return phosphorus into the soil and water, allowing plants to absorb this essential nutrient.
More Information
Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, break down dead organic matter, releasing phosphorus back into the environment where it can be taken up by plants, completing the phosphorus cycle.
Tips
A common mistake is to overlook the specific role of decomposers in returning phosphorus to the environment, instead of just focusing on their roles in other nutrient cycles.
Sources
- How do decomposers contribute to a balanced ecosystem? - learning.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
- Can someone explain the phosphorus cycle in a simple way? - socratic.org
- What role do decomposers play in nutrient cycling within ecosystems? - quora.com
