Plants=storing water
Bacteria and fungi=decomposing dead
organisma
Earthworms=making soil less compact
Bees=pollinating flowering plants
Nearly all organisms=cycling oxygen and
carbon dioxide
Accoring to the chart,what would most likely happen in an ecosystem if there were a sudden decrease in the number of bacteria and fungi?
A.the number of plants would increase
B.the number of bees would increase
C.the amount of nutrients in the soil would decrease
D.the amount of water in the air would decrease
C?
Right.
To determine the answer, we need to analyze the information provided in the chart:
- Plants: They store water.
- Bacteria and fungi: They decompose dead organisms.
- Earthworms: They make soil less compact.
- Bees: They pollinate flowering plants.
- Nearly all organisms: They cycle oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Now, let's consider the question: "What would most likely happen in an ecosystem if there were a sudden decrease in the number of bacteria and fungi?"
Bacteria and fungi play a crucial role in decomposing dead organisms. When organisms die, bacteria and fungi break down their remains into simpler substances, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem. These nutrients are then absorbed by plants, which use them for growth.
If there is a sudden decrease in the number of bacteria and fungi, it would negatively impact the decomposition process and the release of nutrients. As a result, fewer nutrients would be available in the soil. This would likely lead to a decrease in the amount of nutrients in the soil, affecting plant growth and the overall health of the ecosystem.
Therefore, the correct answer is: C. The amount of nutrients in the soil would decrease.