Explain briefly and deeply about, Nitrogen Cycle in ecosystem, and their significant roles in rangelands plant community.within introduction, conclusion and reference.

Answer 1

Introduction:

The nitrogen cycle is a crucial biogeochemical process that allows nitrogen to be recycled and reused within ecosystems. Nitrogen is an essential element for all living organisms, particularly plants, as it is a major component of amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. In the nitrogen cycle, nitrogen undergoes various transformations as it moves between the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms, playing a critical role in maintaining the health and productivity of ecosystems. This cycle involves nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification processes.

Significant roles in rangelands plant community:

In rangelands, the nitrogen cycle plays a vital role in nutrient cycling and plant productivity. Nitrogen fixation, carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil or within the roots of certain plants like legumes, converts atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be utilized by plants. This process increases the availability of nitrogen in the soil, promoting the growth of nitrogen-dependent plants in rangelands.

Nitrification, the conversion of ammonium ions into nitrate by nitrifying bacteria, further enhances the availability of nitrogen for plant uptake. Plants then assimilate this nitrogen from the soil to build proteins and other essential molecules for growth and development. Ammonification involves the decomposition of organic matter by decomposers, releasing ammonium back into the soil for plant use.

Denitrification, carried out by denitrifying bacteria, converts nitrate back into nitrogen gas, which is released back into the atmosphere. This process helps regulate the nitrogen balance in rangeland ecosystems and prevents nitrogen from accumulating to harmful levels.

Conclusion:

The nitrogen cycle is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of rangeland ecosystems. By recycling and reusing nitrogen, this biogeochemical process ensures that plants have an adequate supply of this essential nutrient for growth and development. Understanding the roles of nitrogen in rangelands can help land managers make informed decisions about nutrient management practices to enhance plant productivity and sustainability in these ecosystems.

References:

- Vitousek, P.M., Howarth, R.W. (1991). Nitrogen Limitation on Land and in the Sea: How Can It Occur?. BioScience, 41(2), 87-97.
- Chapin, F.S., Matson, P.A., Mooney, H.A. (2002). Principles of Terrestrial Ecosystem Ecology. Springer Science & Business Media.