Please answer all parts of question 1. Biology 4: global ecology Module 3: intro

Question

Please answer all parts of question 1.


Biology 4: global ecology Module 3: introduction to nutrient cycling Major questions to answer, using the data shown below: 1. Propose a biological reason how each of these factors affect decomposition rates? (Don't describe the data what are the underlying reasons for the relationships) All parts of this must be answered in order to receive full credit. a. Temperature b. Precipitation/water availability c. Invertebrate processors d. Plant species 2. Imagine a scenario where a leaf falls to the ground. Using what you now know, On what place on the planet would you expect the highest rate of nutrient cycling to occur? Defend your answer. Also, why are decomposition and nutrient cycling important? All parts of this must be answered in order to receive full credit

Explanation / Answer

1. Temperature: Soil bacteria is most active in summer conditions than in environments with cold winters. With the temperature reaching 40 O F, the activity in the soil increases. With every 10 o F rise in temperature the microbial population doubles. Thus, in summer the organic matter decomposes faster than in winter.

2. Water availability: Water has a direct and indirect effect on the decomposition rate of the matter. Indirect effect includes the slowing down of decompostion due to excess water and directly, too dry soil inhibits the growth of he microbes thus water is essential for these microbes to survive. Thus, for appropriate decomposition to happen a period wet and dry condition should be provided.

3.Invertebrate processors: The highest decomposition rate is recorded if the soil has high biological activity. The presence of bacteria and fungi, along with invertebrates such as worms and insects helps in increasing the decomposition rates. Earthworms are considered the star invertebrates, that alone may decompose large amount of organic matter.

4. Plant species: The decomposition of various plants occur at different rates. The region with maximum biodiversity have higher decomposition rates. Thus, the forest regions have comparitively higher decomposition rates. Also, small plants are easily decomposed than larger woody trees. Thus, plant species and biodiversity plays a major role in decomposition rates.

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