The soils of tropical rain forests tend to be nutrient-poor due to:
A) extensive wind erosion.
B) the fact that nutrient minerals are stored primarily in the vegetation.
C) removal of native plants, largely grasses, depleting the nutrient minerals.
D) sediment washing into streams from intact forests.
E) poor crop rotation practices in slash-and-burn agriculture.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nutrient minerals in tropical rain forest soils are primarily stored in the dense vegetation, particularly in trees. When these forests are cleared, either through natural processes or human activities, the nutrients are not returned to the soil but are instead lost through runoff or removed with the plant matter. This leads to soil depletion and makes it difficult for agriculture to be productive in these areas without the use of fertilizers.

The Soils of Tropical Rain Forests Tend to Be Nutrient-Poor