Why is phosphorus important in an ecosystem?

1 Answer
Meave60
May 5, 2017

Phosphorus is needed by all organisms to make DNA and RNA, and ATP. In higher animals, phosphorus is also important in bone and teeth formation, and in the structure of cell membranes.

Explanation:

All DNA and RNA nucleotides contain a 5-carbon sugar (deoxyribose or ribose), alternated with a phosphate group. Without the availability of phosphorus in the ecosystem, organisms wouldn't be able to produce DNA and RNA.

https://www.sophia.org/tutorials/video-material-10-dna-rna

ATP is the energy currency of all cells, and is produced by cellular respiration, during which ADP molecules combine with a phosphate group to form ATP. Without ATP, cells would not have a useable energy source and would not be able to survive.

http://www.thealevelbiologist.co.uk/atp

Bones and teeth require phosphorus in addition to calcium. More than half of all bones and teeth are made up of phosphorus.

http://slideplayer.com/slide/6659197/
The membranes of all cells are made of a bilayer of phospholipids, which help maintain homeostasis.

http://www.keywordsuggests.com

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