Summary
Bacteria and fungi that break down dead matter and recycle nutrients to the soil.
In depth
Fungi and bacteria secrete enzymes and absorb the products. Decomposition releases mineral ions such as nitrate and phosphate back into the soil and CO2 into the air. Rates depend on temperature, moisture and oxygen; waterlogged, cold soils decompose slowly, producing peat.
Without decomposers, nutrients would be locked up in dead matter.
Decomposition goes through leaching, fragmentation by detritivores and chemical breakdown by microbes. Lignin decays slowly, favouring fungi. Rates are high in warm, moist soil.
Remember: decomposers close the nutrient cycle.
Frequently asked questions
What is Decomposers?
Bacteria and fungi that break down dead matter and recycle nutrients to the soil.
Which area of biology covers Decomposers, and how advanced is it?
Decomposers is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Ecosystem, Eutrophication, Nitrogen Cycle.
Can you give an example of Decomposers?
Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of decomposer fungi.
What should I learn before Decomposers?
Decomposers is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Ecology that pair well with it include Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors.
What topics are related to Decomposers?
The closest topics to Decomposers are Ecosystem, Eutrophication, Nitrogen Cycle, Biotic and Abiotic Factors. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Decomposers?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Decomposers. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Decomposers different from Ecosystem?
Decomposers: Bacteria and fungi that break down dead matter and recycle nutrients to the soil. Ecosystem: A community of living organisms interacting with the non-living parts of their environment. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Decomposers step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Ecosystem and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.