Answer:
The autotrophs are the ones that perform the phosphorus cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
A is correct because the autotrophs are the organisms that are able to consume the inorganic phosphates, use them, and release parts of them in the other spheres, thus contributing to the phosphorus cycle.
B is not correct because the heterotrophs are not organisms that can process inorganic matter and produce their own food, instead, they are dependent on the autotrophs to do that.
C is not correct because the carnivores are not able to consume and process inorganic phosphates, with their food sources being based around the primary and secondary consumers.
D is not correct because the herbivores use the producers (autotrophs) as their food source, and they are not able to process inorganic phosphates on their own.