Variations In Nutrient Supply Essay, Research Paper

Abiotic factors ?

weathering – action of water on substratum

( underlying rock ) . Freeze/thawing

and acidity of water can all result in the release of mineral ions. Biotic

factors- Detritivores ? primary consumers that feed on detritus ? organic debris from decomposition

of plants and animals. Are larger

organisms than decomposers ingest food and digest it internally eg. Worms,

woodlice, maggots , millipedes. Aid

activity of decomposers by :- 1.

Reducing size of

detritus particles resulting in a larger surface area for activity of

decomposers and easier access. 2.

Add their faeces to detritus . 3.

Aerate the soil by their activity improving oxygen content of

soil and increasing respiration of decomposers. Decomposers ? see

earlier.