Describe how limiting nutrients structure ecosystems and what happens when you add that limiting nutrient back.

70.2K

Verified Solution

Question

Biology

Describe how limiting nutrients structure ecosystems and whathappens when you add that limiting nutrient back.

Answer & Explanation Solved by verified expert
4.4 Ratings (663 Votes)
An ecosystem can be as small as a puddle of water or as vast as a desert It can be defined as a specific area comprised of living organisms eg flora and fauna and the nonliving factors that make up their habitat Within that ecosystem a limiting nutrient is a relatively scarce naturally occurring element Growth only occurs as long as the nutrient is available The major limiting nutrients are Nitrogen N Phosphorus P Limiting nutrients are important because they determine the quantity of plants available for animals to feed on This influences how many animals can live in a certain habitat When a limiting nutrient is too scarce animal populations decline when it increases animal populations swell The limiting nutrient in an ecosystem should    See Answer
Get Answers to Unlimited Questions

Join us to gain access to millions of questions and expert answers. Enjoy exclusive benefits tailored just for you!

Membership Benefits:
  • Unlimited Question Access with detailed Answers
  • Zin AI - 3 Million Words
  • 10 Dall-E 3 Images
  • 20 Plot Generations
  • Conversation with Dialogue Memory
  • No Ads, Ever!
  • Access to Our Best AI Platform: Flex AI - Your personal assistant for all your inquiries!
Become a Member

Other questions asked by students