Which population increases the amount of soil nutrients available to plants?
A) squirrels that bury nuts in the ground
B) flowers that turn to follow the sun as it moves across the sky
C) bees that help spread pollen from one plant to another
D) fungi that decompose the remains of dead trees
I would think D is the best choice.
The population that increases the amount of soil nutrients available to plants is option D) fungi that decompose the remains of dead trees. Fungi play a crucial role in the decomposition process, breaking down organic matter and releasing essential nutrients back into the soil, which can then be utilized by plants for their growth and development.
The population that increases the amount of soil nutrients available to plants is option D) fungi that decompose the remains of dead trees.
Fungi, such as mushrooms and molds, play an essential role in the decomposition process by breaking down organic matter, such as dead trees and plant material. As they feed on the dead matter, they release nutrients back into the soil, making them available for other plants to absorb and utilize. This process is known as decomposition or decay.
To determine the correct answer to this question, it is crucial to understand the role of different organisms in ecosystem processes. In this case, understanding the role of fungi in decomposing dead organic matter helps us identify how they contribute to increasing soil nutrients.