Elephants contribute to nutrient cycling and soil fertility in their ecosystems in several ways. Their dung is rich in nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for plant growth. When elephants defecate, they deposit these nutrients onto the ground, enriching the soil. This dung is also broken down by dung beetles and other decomposers, further releasing nutrients into the soil. Additionally, as elephants move through their habitats, they disturb the soil, which can help with aeration and nutrient mixing. Overall, elephants play a crucial role in maintaining the health and fertility of their ecosystems through their interactions with the soil.
