If all terrestrial autotrophs were removed from the planet, how would this alter the rate of carbon cycling on Earth?
A)The rate of carbon cycling would remain the same because microorganisms would liberate carbon faster into the atmosphere.
B)The rate of carbon cycling would decrease because the link between primary consumers and primary producers would be eliminated.
C)The rate of carbon cycling would decrease because there could be no terrestrial animals without plants supporting higher trophic levels.
D)The rate of carbon cycling would increase because marine primary producers would be able to use all the sunlight and not have to compete with terrestrial plants for light.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Terrestrial autotrophs play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by fixing atmospheric carbon dioxide into organic compounds through photosynthesis. This organic carbon is then consumed by herbivores, which are in turn consumed by carnivores and other higher trophic levels. Without the primary producers, the link between primary consumers and primary producers would be eliminated, leading to a decrease in the rate of carbon cycling. While microorganisms would still be present to decompose organic matter, they would not be able to access as much organic carbon without the presence of autotrophs. Additionally, the lack of terrestrial plants would likely limit the ability of higher trophic levels to be supported, further reducing the rate of carbon cycling.

If All Terrestrial Autotrophs Were Removed from the Planet, How