Phosphorous Cycle: In Depth: Dr.A

Question 1

WEATHERING is a SLOW process
Why does it LIMIT the GROWTH of organisms?

Answer 1

• Hinders ability to perform VITAL processes
• E.G - Cell Cycle, Protein Synthesis, DNA Replication etc.

Question 2

How do PLANTS and FUNGI form a SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP in the PHOSHOROUS CYCLE?
What is the NAME of the FUNGI?

Answer 2

• FUNGI helps plants obtain MORE PO4 as they INCREASE SA
• PLANTS supply FUNGI with SUGARS from photosynthesis
  Mycorrhizae

Question 3

How does MYCORRHIZAE help INCREASE the SA of the PLANTS ROOTS?

Answer 3

• HYPAE of fungus INCREASES the SA
• Helping the PLANT obtain more PO4, and other NUTRIENTS from SOIL

Question 4

Describe how the PHOSPHOROUS CYCLE occurs on LAND

Answer 4

• PO4 enters FOOD CHAIN via PRIMARY PRODUCERS
  –> Which BIOACCUMULATE up the FOOD CHAIN
• PO4 RETURNED to SOIL through DEAD MATTER and WASTE
  –> SAPROBIONTS are KEY for that process

Question 5

Describe how the PHOSPHOROUS CYCLE occurs in WATERWAYS

Answer 5

• PO4 “LEACHES” into WATERWAYS from SEDIMENTARY ROCKS via WEATHERING
• AQUATIC PRODUCERS such as ALGAE absorb them
• Producers are then EATEN by FISH and other small ANIMALS
  –> Eventually ends up in BIRDS
• BIRDS SHIT (Guano) is HIGHLY rich in PO4
  –> and is RETURNED to SOIL as a NATURAL FERTILISER