Nutrient Cycling

The Cycle

The nutrient cycle is the circulation of nutrients between biotic and abiotic elements, ensuring that plant life receive elements such as nitrogen, magnesium and potassium.

The rainforest nutrient cycling is rapid. The hot, damp conditions on the forest floor allow for the rapid decomposition of dead plant material. This provides plentiful nutrients that are easily absorbed by plant roots. However, as these nutrients are in high demand from the rainforest’s many fast-growing plants, they do not remain in the soil for long and stay close to the surface of the soil. If vegetation is removed, the soils quickly become infertile and vulnerable to erosion.

Nutrient Cycle in Rainforests

Nutrient Cycling, figure 1

Nutrient Cycling, figure 2

Trophic Levels

Nutrient Cycling, figure 1

In ecosystems, feeding relationships are shown in food chains. Each stage is a trophic level.

Nutrient Cycling, figure 2

Food Web

Nutrient Cycling, figure 1

What are the inputs, recycling and outputs of the nutrient cycle.
Your answer should include: Precipitation / Weathering / Leaching / Runoff
Why does the tropical rainforest have high nutrient cycling. How does this impact on biodiversity?
Your answer should include: Rainfall / Temperature / Infertile / Plants / Animals
What are trophic levels (1,2,3,4).
Your answer should include: Plants / Carnivores / Herbivores / Large