What is the relationship between nutrient cycles and biodiversity?

The correct answer highlights the essential role of healthy nutrient cycles in promoting biodiversity. Nutrient cycles are the pathways through which essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium circulate through the environment, including various biotic (living organisms) and abiotic (non-living elements) components. When these cycles function properly, they ensure that ecosystems receive the necessary nutrients that support plant growth and, consequently, the entire food web.

Healthy nutrient cycles lead to robust plant communities, which form the foundation for diverse habitats that support a variety of animal species. When nutrients are adequately available due to efficient cycling, plant productivity increases, fostering a rich array of species. This diversity contributes to ecosystem stability and resilience, allowing ecosystems to better withstand changes and disturbances. Thus, the positive correlation between nutrient cycles and biodiversity emphasizes how vital nutrient availability and cycling are for sustaining ecological health and diversity.