Question

What is the role of decomposers in the ecosystem?

Answer 1

A decomposer is an organism that decomposes, or breaks down, organic material such as the remains of dead organisms. Decomposers include bacteria and fungi.

Complete answer:
Decomposers eventually convert all organic matter into carbon dioxide (which they respire) and nutrients. (Such as nitrogen, phosphorus and magnesium) in a form usable to plant and algae, which incorporate the chemicals into their own cells. This process resupplies nutrients to the ecosystem, in turn allowing for greater primary production. Although decomposers are generally located on the bottom of ecosystem diagrams such as food chains, food webs and energy pyramids. decomposers in the biosphere are crucial to the environment. By breathing down dead material, they provide the nutrients that other organisms need to survive. As decomposers feed on dead organisms they leave behind nutrients. These nutrients become part of the soil. Therefore, more plants can grow and thrive.

Decomposers perform a valuable service as earth’s cleanup crew. The organisms that occupy the decomposer level of a biome are essential to life on earth. They break down dead plant and animal matter so the nutrients in them are recycled back into the ecosystem to be used again.

Note: Decomposers made up of the fungi, bacteria and invertebrates, worms and insects. They are all living things that get energy by eating dead animals.