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Question #46049
The Question
In a stable climax forest, a novel chemical pollutant selectively inhibits the soil microbes responsible for humification and mineralization. Applying the principles of ecosystem dynamics and Paul Ehrlich’s 'Rivet Popper' hypothesis, which of the following statements is INCORRECT regarding the consequences of this metabolic bottleneck?
Options
- A.
The initial physical structure of the climax community (the 'fuselage') will appear intact despite the cessation of nutrient cycling.
- B.
The failure of mineralization locks inorganic nutrients in the detritus, eventually leading to a bottom-up collapse of the Grazing Food Chain (GFC).
- C.
The ecosystem will experience a surge in Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) as the accumulating un-decomposed organic matter acts as a direct energy source for the climax vegetation.
- D.
The loss of these specific microbial decomposers acts as the removal of 'key rivets' on the airplane's wing, inevitably driving the ecosystem toward structural collapse.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Rivet Popper Hypothesis|Co-extinction Logic|Keystone Species
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse 'organic matter accumulation' with 'nutrient availability'.
While humus is a massive nutrient reservoir, those nutrients are biologically immobilized and unavailable to plants until the specific step of mineralization occurs.
The trap in Option C exploits the misconception that abundant organic detritus directly fuels plant productivity, ignoring the NCERT fact that plants only absorb inorganic minerals.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biodiversity and Conservation - Class 12 |
| Concept | Rivet Popper Hypothesis |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |