Answer to Question #127707 in Ecology for Kylie

Question

Discuss the role of soil microorganisms in the global circulation of nutrients.

Answer 1

Soil microorganisms play an essential role in the circulation of nutrients, a process that sustains life on earth. Microorganisms, such as Bacteria, Algae, Archaea, and Fungi, are essential in the decomposition of dead plants, releasing vital nutrients to living plants for uptake. Without this decomposition role, the world would be full of a heap of unused materials. For instance, the decomposition of dead plants happens by microorganisms' search for organic Carbon, their food, while releasing the locked up Nitrogen, Potassium, and phosphorus, important nutrients for plant health. Therefore, without microbes, essential nutrients would be locked up forever, leading to unsustainable life on the earth.