When the animal dies, its remains are decomposed and the constituent ions are released into the soil, after which they are absorbed by plants. Animals consuming these plants recover phosphorus and the cycle continues. For humans and animals, phosphates are essential components of DNA, fat molecules of cell membranes and are also a component of energy-depositing molecules like ATP and ADP. Phosphorus is also a building block of parts such as bones and teeth (Ruttenberg, 2003). Most of the extracted phosphorus is used to make fertilizers. Humans influence the phosphorus cycle largely through the use of fertilizers and the raising of livestock, particularly pigs. If phosphorus levels are too high, excess plant nutrients encourage disproportionate algae growth. However, these algae die or form algal blooms, which are toxic to plants and animals in the ecosystem. (Emsley, 1980)When it comes to phosphorus and agriculture, the biggest impacts I've had have been when I buy pork. By consuming its meat, I support the increase in the pig herd and therefore the continued destruction.