Question

Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding the phosphorus cycle?

• A. Phosphates are the major form of phosphorus reservoir
• B. Phosphorus solubilising bacteria facilitate the release of phosphorus from organic remains
• C. There is appreciable respiratory release of phosphorus into atmosphere
• D. It is sedimentary cycle

Answer 1

The correct option is C There is appreciable respiratory release of phosphorus into atmosphere

Movement of nutrients through various biotic and abiotic components of the ecosystem is called biogeochemical cycles or nutrient cycles.

Phosphorus cycle is an example of a sedimentary cycle as the reservoir of phosphorus exists in the earth’s crust.

Rock is the natural reservoir of phosphorus, which contains phosphorus in the form of phosphates. Minor amounts of phosphorus get dissolved in the soil solution due to the weathering of rocks. It is absorbed by the roots of plants. Herbivorous animals obtain phosphorus by consuming plants and carnivores obtain it by feeding on herbivores. Decomposition of the dead plants and animals by phosphate-solubilising bacteria also releases phosphorus but there is no respiratory release of phosphorus into the atmosphere.

Hence, the statement in option c is incorrect.