Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Biology Practice Test

What is the impact of cutting down trees and leaving them on the forest floor on the nutrient cycle?

1. It causes a depletion of nutrients in the soil

2. It prevents decomposers from breaking down organic matter

3. It facilitates decomposers in breaking down material to transfer energy

4. It has no effect on the nutrient cycle

The correct answer is: It facilitates decomposers in breaking down material to transfer energy

Cutting down trees and leaving them on the forest floor positively impacts the nutrient cycle by facilitating decomposers in breaking down material to transfer energy. When trees are cut and left in the forest, they become a source of organic matter that decomposers, such as fungi and bacteria, can break down. This process is crucial for the nutrient cycle because it allows the nutrients stored in the plant matter to be released back into the soil. As decomposers break down the fallen trees, they convert complex organic compounds into simpler forms, which can then be absorbed by plants. This enhances nutrient availability and promotes soil fertility, ultimately supporting the growth of new vegetation and maintaining ecosystem health. The presence of decomposing material on the forest floor is essential for sustaining the intricate web of life in forest ecosystems, as it enriches the soil and fosters a healthy nutrient cycle.