AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -They include fungi along with invertebrate organisms sometimes called detritivores, which include earthworms, termites, and millipedes. Fungi are important decomposers, especially in forests.

Detailed explanation-2: -Examples of decomposers are fungi and bacteria that obtain their nutrients from a dead plant or animal material. They break down the cells of dead organisms into simpler substances, which become organic nutrients available to the ecosystem.

Detailed explanation-3: -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.

Detailed explanation-4: -These two factors make fungi the primary decomposers in forests, where litter has high concentrations of lignin and often occurs in large pieces. Fungi decompose organic matter by releasing enzymes to break down the decaying material, after which they absorb the nutrients in the decaying material.

Detailed explanation-5: -Bacteria and fungi, both are decomposers.