Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Tropical rainforests exhibit poor soil fertility, yet support rich biodiversity and dense vegetation. Statement-II: Rapid nutrient cycling in the litter layer compensates for the naturally nutrient-poor red latosol soils. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? |ForumIAS

[A] Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

[B] Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

[C] Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect

[D] Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Answer: A

Notes:

Explanation:

Despite poor soil fertility (due to leaching and red latosols), tropical rainforests support dense and diverse life forms.
Rapid decomposition and nutrient recycling in the litter layer enable high productivity and compensate for soil poverty.

Source: Environment( N.C.E.R.T)