Which of the following has the greatest effect on the rate of chemical cycling in an ecosystem?
A)the rate of decomposition in the ecosystem
B)the production efficiency of the consumers
C)the trophic efficiency of the ecosystem
D)the location of the nutrient reservoirs

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate of decomposition is crucial for the cycling of nutrients in an ecosystem. Decomposers break down organic matter and release nutrients back into the soil or water, which can then be used by producers to make new organic material. Without decomposition, nutrients would become tied up in dead organic matter and unavailable for use by living organisms. The other options (B, C, and D) are also important factors in ecosystem functioning, but they do not have as direct and immediate an impact on nutrient cycling as the rate of decomposition.

Which of the Following Has the Greatest Effect on the Rate