AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -If a lion died of old age, the scavengers (vultures and hyenas) and the decomposers (insects, worms, bacteria, and Page 2 Name Date fungi) might feed on it. Its remains will return to the soil, and plants will use the nutrients to grow more plants. Decomposers connect the top and the bottom of the food chain.

Detailed explanation-2: -Decomposers 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 passed to other organisms when they are eaten or consumed.

Detailed explanation-3: -Nature has its own recycling system: a group of organisms called decomposers. Decomposers feed on dead things: dead plant materials such as leaf litter and wood, animal carcasses, and feces. They perform a valuable service as Earth’s cleanup crew.

Detailed explanation-4: -The decomposers complete the cycle by returning essential molecules to the plant producers. Decomposers (fungi, bacteria, invertebrates such as worms and insects) have the ability to break down dead organisms into smaller particles and create new compounds.