What is one of the consequences of poor nutrient cycling in an ecosystem?

One of the consequences of poor nutrient cycling in an ecosystem is depleted soil fertility. Nutrient cycling involves the transformation and movement of nutrients through the environment, including the uptake of nutrients by plants, their return to the soil through organic matter decomposition, and their availability for subsequent crops. When nutrient cycling is disrupted – whether due to practices like over-farming, lack of diverse cropping systems, or inadequate organic matter input – the soil can become deficient in essential nutrients. This depletion can lead to reduced plant growth, lower yields, and an overall decline in ecosystem health, as plants rely on a balanced supply of nutrients for optimal development and productivity.

In contrast, increased soil moisture, enhanced crop rotation, and improved soil structure are beneficial aspects that can arise from good nutrient cycling practices, rather than being consequences of its poor management. Good nutrient cycling can indeed lead to improved soil structure and moisture retention by fostering healthy microbial activity and organic matter, while crop rotation can thrive on the balanced nutrient availability.