Phosphorus in biological molecules
Plants and animals require phosphorus for the production of several important biological molecules.
- phospholipids
- nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA
- ATP
Once phosphate has been taken up by a producer, its phosphorus can become incorporated into these biological molecules.
Transfer through feeding
Phosphorus passes from one organism to another when organisms feed. In this way, phosphorus in producers can enter consumers and can then pass onwards through feeding relationships.
| Stage | Form or location of phosphorus |
|---|---|
| Producer | Phosphorus incorporated into biological molecules |
| Primary consumer | Phosphorus obtained by feeding on producers |
| Further consumers | Phosphorus transferred onwards during feeding |