Which of the following most often controls the rate of nutrient cycling in ecosystems?
A) rate of decomposition of detritus
B) primary productivity
C) secondary productivity
D) Both B and C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate of decomposition of detritus is the primary process that controls the rate of nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Detritus is made up of dead organic matter, including dead plants and animals, and it serves as a source of nutrients for other organisms in the ecosystem. The rate of decomposition determines the speed at which these nutrients are released back into the ecosystem for use by other organisms. While primary productivity (the rate of photosynthesis by plants) and secondary productivity (the rate at which energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next) are important factors in ecosystems, they are not the primary drivers of nutrient cycling.

Which of the Following Most Often Controls the Rate of Nutrient