How decomposers recycle nutrients in the ecosystem.
The process:
The process of decomposing is how nature recycles dead and waste matter back into the ecosystem, allowing materials from once-living organisms to be reused.
Decomposers such as bacteria and fungi act on dead plants, dead animals, and organic waste, beginning the breakdown of this material.
First, they release enzymes onto the dead material, which start the chemical breakdown from the outside.
These enzymes break complex organic substances like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into much simpler molecules.
Next, decomposers absorb these simpler substances for their own energy and growth, helping them survive and reproduce.
During this breakdown, nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and minerals are released into the soil or water.
Finally, plants absorb these recycled nutrients through their roots, and the nutrients re-enter the food chain.
In this way, decomposers prevent the buildup of dead matter and keep ecosystems balanced by continuously recycling nutrients.