AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Most decomposers are microscopic organisms, including protozoa and bacteria. Other decomposers are big enough to see without a microscope. They include fungi along with invertebrate organisms sometimes called detritivores, which include earthworms, termites, and millipedes.

Detailed explanation-2: -Indeed, even the common grocery store mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (often marketed as “White Button, ” “Cremini, ” or “Portobello”) is a decomposer.

Detailed explanation-3: -Back to the Beginning. When plants and animals die, they become food for decomposers like bacteria, fungi and earthworms. Decomposers or saprotrophs recycle dead plants and animals into chemical nutrients like carbon and nitrogen that are released back into the soil, air and water.

Detailed explanation-4: -Earthworms are decomposers that break down and recycle the matter from dead plants and animals, as well as waste products, returning it back into the soil. This is how a compost pile works!