Question

Given above is a simplified model of phosphorus cycling in a terrestrial ecosystem with four blanks (A-D). Identify the blanks.

A) Rock minerals, B- Detritus, C- Litter falls, D- Producers
B) A- Litter, B- Producers, C- Rock minerals, D- Detritus
C) A- Detritus, B- Rock minerals, C- Producers, D- Litter fall
D) Producers, B- Litter fall, C- Rock minerals, D- Detritus

Answer 1

The biogeochemical cycle that describes the transport of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere is known as the phosphorus cycle. The atmosphere has no role in the transportation of phosphorus, unlike many other biogeochemical cycles, because phosphorus and phosphorus-based compounds are usually solids at the temperatures and pressures prevalent on Earth.

Complete answer:
Phosphorus cycle can be defined as the movement of the phosphorus through the lithosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere. The main steps are weathering, absorption by plants and animals and return to the environment by the process of decomposition.

According to the given question, the consumer produces Detritus which is leaf litter and other organic debris that has been mixed with soil to form humus (decomposition). Minerals make up the majority of rocks (weathering). Primary producers are creatures that produce biomass from inorganic substances in an ecosystem (autotrophs).

Litterfall is dead plant material that has fallen to the ground, such as leaves, bark, needles, and twigs. This detritus, or dead organic material, and the nutrients it contains are added to the soil's top layer, known as the litter layer.

Therefore the correct answer is option ‘C’.

Note: The phosphorus is one of the important minerals which is needed for the growth and development of the living system. The DNA is made up of phosphate. The ATP or the main energy that can be utilised by the living system is made up of phosphate. So we can say the biological membrane, nucleic acids, and cellular energy transmission system all contain phosphorus.