Question

Choose the factor(s) affecting decomposition:

• A. Chemical nature of decomposition products.
• B. pH of the soil.
• C. Temperature of the decomposition site.
• D. Consumers living in the decomposition site.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

Temperature of the decomposition site.

Nitrogenous compounds are decomposed faster than phenolic compounds. Hence, chemical nature of decomposition products affect decomposition. acidic soil reduces the growth of the detrivores and neutral to slightly alkaline soil has more detrivores and microbes in number. The process of decomposition slows down with the decrease in temperature. Hence, tropical forests have a thick humus layer in comparison to tundra forests. Apart from these factors, moisture and oxygen also affect decomposition.