Interdependence in Deciduous Woodlands

In deciduous woodlands water, soil, climate, animals and people are all interdependent. This means changes in one factor causes change to the others.

The components of the deciduous woodland are linked through the nutrient cycles and the water cycle. Trees take up nutrients and water from the soil. During photosynthesis, oxygen is released which animals and humans need to breathe. During the autumn months, leaves fall from trees, decompose and return nutrients to the soil.

As woodlands are sheltered, they cannot rely on the wind to disperse seeds. Instead, animals distribute seeds in their excrement. The seeds then grow into new plants. Also, ants carry seeds from the forest floor to their nests, where they feed seed casings to their young. This helps disperse seeds far and wide, allowing the species to spread.