Final answer:
Removing trees impacts the phosphorus cycle by preventing phosphorus absorption from the soil, leading to its accumulation and possible runoff into bodies of water. This can cause algal blooms that disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Removing trees significantly impacts the phosphorus cycle.
Trees play a crucial role in this cycle as they absorb phosphorus from the soil through their roots. In turn, this is used for their growth and is eventually returned to the soil when fallen leaves decompose.
Additionally, trees help in preventing soil erosion, which can result in phosphorus being washed away with the soil.
When trees are removed, the phosphorus is no longer cycled through these living organisms.
This leads to an accumulation of phosphorus in the soil, which could further get washed away and lead to phosphorus runoff. High levels of phosphorus in bodies of water induce algal blooming, which can disrupt the overall ecosystem.
Learn more about Phosphorus cycle