Question

Phosphates obtained from weathering of rocks is first directly available to

• A. producers
• B. primary consumers
• C. decomposers
• D. secondary consumers

Answer 1

The correct option is A producers

Phosphorus cycle is a sedimentary nutrient cycle. Earth’s crust (lithosphere) is the reservoir of phosphorus.
The rocks in the lithosphere contain phosphorus in the form of phosphates. Minor amounts of these phosphates are dissolved in the soil solution due to weathering of rocks. This is then absorbed by the plants i.e, producers. Therefore, the phosphorus obtained from weathering of rocks is first available to the producers.
Consumers (herbivores and other animals) obtain this phosphorus from producers.
Decomposers help in releasing some amount of phosphorus in the soil by their action on dead plant and animal remains.