Terrestrial abiotic elements

The average P concentration in the dry matter of terrestrial ecosystems is about 0.2%, whereas that in oceanic ecosystems is about 1.1%. A significant part of this element has been retained in soil humus biogeochemical barrier, where the P content is about 0.15%. The total mass of P in biotic and abiotic matter is about 9.7 x 1 O tons (Table 19). 

Cycling is a fundamental natural process that governs the behavior and distribution of chemical elements in the Earth and its envelope. Soil, as a part of the terrestrial ecosystem, plays a crucial role in elemental cycling. It has important functions as a storage, buffer, filter, and transformation compartment, supporting a homeostatic interrelationship between the biotic and abiotic components. 

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