Final answer:
Nutrient cycling and soil formation in tropical forests exemplify ecosystem services. They are crucial for maintaining soil fertility and supporting biodiversity. The loss of forests from deforestation can severely disrupt these services.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nutrient cycling and soil formation in tropical forests are examples of ecosystem services. These services are vital as they sustain the soil's fertility and structure, enabling the forest to support a rich diversity of life. Nutrient cycling involves the decomposition of leaf litter and organic matter on the forest floor, which in turn, replenishes the soil with essential nutrients. Soil formation is a complex process where organic and inorganic materials combine to create a medium capable of supporting plant life. Together, they regulate the availability of resources necessary for plant growth and maintain the health of the tropical forest ecosystem.
Deforestation jeopardizes these crucial services by removing the vegetation cover that contributes to nutrient cycling and soil formation, leading to nutrient loss and soil erosion. The tropical rainforests' dense canopies and layered structure are not only important for biodiversity but also play a significant role in water regulation, showcasing another critical ecosystem service. Ultimately, the loss of tropical forests can severely disrupt these services, with far-reaching consequences for the ecosystem and human life.