EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Decomposers play a critical role in the flow of energy through an ecosystem. They break apart dead organisms into simpler inorganic materials, making nutrients available to primary producers.

Detailed explanation-2: -Decomposers (fungi, bacteria, invertebrates such as worms and insects) have the ability to break down dead organisms into smaller particles and create new compounds. We use decomposers to restore the natural nutrient cycle through controlled composting.

Detailed explanation-3: -Decomposers and scavengers break down dead plants and animals. They also break down the waste (poop) of other organisms. Decomposers are very important for any ecosystem. If they weren’t in the ecosystem, the plants would not get essential nutrients, and dead matter and waste would pile up.

Detailed explanation-4: -Decomposers act on the dead matter, e.g. by secreting the enzymes and digesting the matter externally. Saprotrophs contribute to the decomposition process by extracellular digestion, i.e., they digest dead matter externally by secreting enzymes and then absorbing the nutrients.

Detailed explanation-5: -Decomposers break down animal remains and wastes to get energy. Decomposers are essential for the stability and survival of an ecosystem.