Phosphorus Cycle

phosphorus is an essential nutrient for

plants and animals

unlike the other cycles phosphorus does not…

cycle up into/through the atmosphere at all

phosphorus mostly cycles through

rock, soil, water, and living organisms.

phosporus is a key component of

DNA, RNA, ATP, and cell membranes.

phosphorus plays a critical role in

plant growth and agricultural productivity.

phosphorus deficiency can lead to

stunted plant growth

where is phosphorus found

in rocks and minerals (as phosphate)

when washed into water systems, phosphorus can

limit growth in aquatic ecosystems

what adds and increases phosphorus levels to water systems

human activity such as detergents and fertilizer use. increased by industrial processes and wastewater.

Excess phosphorus leads to

eutrophication, resulting in low oxyegn zones in water bodies.

Over-extraction of phosphorus from…

rocks for agriculture is depleting natural reserves

Solutions to Phosphorus Imbalance

Use of sustainable fertilizers.

Phosphorus recycling from waste

Reducing phosphorus runoff through better agricultural practices.