Organisms that break down the dead remains of other organisms

Organisms that break down the dead remains of other organisms

• A. Scavengers
• B. Detritivores
• C. Decomposers
• D. Producers

Answer: (C)

Decomposition and nutrient cycling rely on decomposers. These organisms secrete enzymes that break down dead matter into simpler inorganic nutrients, returning minerals to the soil and making them available for plants. Fungi and bacteria are classic examples. Scavengers mainly remove and consume carcasses, not primarily break them down into nutrients. Detritivores physically break apart detritus by eating it, but the chemical breakdown and nutrient release that recycle minerals are carried out by decomposers. Producers are the organisms that create organic matter (like plants via photosynthesis), not those that break down dead material. So, the organisms that break down the dead remains of other organisms to recycle nutrients are decomposers.

Decomposition and nutrient cycling rely on decomposers. These organisms secrete enzymes that break down dead matter into simpler inorganic nutrients, returning minerals to the soil and making them available for plants. Fungi and bacteria are classic examples.

Scavengers mainly remove and consume carcasses, not primarily break them down into nutrients. Detritivores physically break apart detritus by eating it, but the chemical breakdown and nutrient release that recycle minerals are carried out by decomposers. Producers are the organisms that create organic matter (like plants via photosynthesis), not those that break down dead material.

So, the organisms that break down the dead remains of other organisms to recycle nutrients are decomposers.