Phosphorous cycle is a sedimentary cycle. The natural reservoir of phosphorous is rock which contains phosphorous in the form of phosphates.
Utilisation and Addition: Small amount of phosphate is always added to soil solution through weathering of rocks.
i) It is absorbed by the roots of the plants.
ii) Herbivores and other animals obtain this element from plants.
iii) Phosphorus solubilising bacteria facilitate the release of phosphorus from organic remains.
iv) Phosphorous released in the process becomes available for reutilization of plants.
Difference from gaseous cycle:
i) Inputs of phosphorous through rainfall are much smaller.
ii) No respiratory release of phosphorous into atmosphere.