Phosphorus cycle

• 1. Phosphate ions are present in rock

  Long term weathering causes these Phosphate ions to slowly enter soils and waters around the globe.

  Phosphate ions taken up (absorbed) by primary producers on land from the soil (and dissolved in water for aquatic primary producers).
• 2. Feeding takes place and the phosphorus in the biological molecules of the primary producers is transferred through to the consumers.
• 3. Waste products from the consumers or death of producers/consumers means that organic material is available for the decomposers(Saprotrophs)

  They break down the phosphorus-containing molecules (DNA, RNA, ATP etc) and the phosphate ions become available to the primary producers again. 
• • mycorrhizae Gives a greater surface area for the plant to absorb nitrates and phosphates - the uptake is enhanced
  • Mycorrhizae receives sugars from plant 
  • Plants associated with mycorrhizae will have an increased yield