Consider the following statements:

Statement-I: The soil in tropical rainforests is rich in nutrients.

Statement-II: The high temperature and moisture of tropical rain forests cause dead organic matter in the soil to decompose quickly.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Key Points

Tropical Rainforests:

• Tropical rainforests are primarily located between 23.5°N (Tropic of Cancer) and 23.5°S (Tropic of Capricorn).
  • They are found in regions like Central and South America, western and central Africa, western India, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
  • These ecosystems are known for their lush vegetation and high biodiversity.
• Soil Nutrient Content:
  • The soil in tropical rainforests is typically poor in nutrients.
  • Rainforest soil is considered "poor" in nutrients because the high rainfall rapidly leaches nutrients out of the soil, meaning they are washed away by water, and most of the nutrients are stored within the living plants themselves rather than accumulating in the soil, making it appear less fertile compared to other ecosystems; this is due to the rapid decomposition of organic matter in the warm, humid climate, where nutrients are quickly absorbed by the dense vegetation as soon as they become available. 
  • Hence, Statement I is incorrect.
• Rapid Decomposition:
  • The high temperature and moisture in tropical rainforests accelerate the decomposition of dead organic matter.
  • Decomposers like bacteria and fungi break down this organic material rapidly, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
  • These nutrients are quickly taken up by plants and other organisms.
  • Hence, Statement II is correct.
• Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4: Statement I is incorrect, Statement II is correct.