Consider the following statements : Statement-I : The soil in tropical rain forests 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?

1. A. (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
2. B. (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
3. C. (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement- II is incorrect
4. D. (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Answer: D

Explanation

Statement I is incorrect. Tropical rainforest soils are generally poor in nutrients. Most of the nutrients are locked up in the biomass (vegetation) itself, not in the soil. The rapid decomposition and uptake by plants mean that very little nutrient content remains in the soil. Statement II is correct. The high temperatures and abundant moisture in tropical rainforests create ideal conditions for rapid decomposition of dead organic matter by bacteria, fungi, and other decomposers. This quick recycling of nutrients is why the biomass is rich, but the soil itself is nutrient-poor. Therefore, Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct. This question tests knowledge of ecosystem characteristics, relevant for UPSC Geography and Environment.