AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Decomposers break apart complex organic materials into more elementary substances: water and carbon dioxide, plus simple compounds containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium. All of these components are substances that plants need to grow.

Detailed explanation-2: -Different decomposers Fungi release chemicals to break down dead plants or animals into simple substances. They absorb some of these substances for growth, but others enter the soil. Earthworms digest rotting plant and animal matter as they swallow soil.

Detailed explanation-3: -Decomposers (Figure below) get nutrients and energy by breaking down dead organisms and animal wastes. Through this process, decomposers release nutrients, such as carbon and nitrogen, back into the environment. These nutrients are recycled back into the ecosystem so that the producers can use them.

Detailed explanation-4: -Decomposers: Detritivores and Saprotrophs There are two major groups that make up the decomposers: detritivores that feed on dead matter and saprotrophs. Detritivores (sometimes simply called detrivores) include animal decomposers whereas saprotrophs (also called saprobes) are exemplified by fungi and bacteria.

Detailed explanation-5: -Decomposers are also called saptrotrophs. They show saprotrophic mode of nutrition i.e. they feed on dead and decaying matters. For example, bacteria, fungi, etc. Autotrophs are producers which include plants. Phagotrophs or heterotrophs are consumers who depend on plants and animals for their nutrition.