Question

If all decomposers are removed from an ecosystem, what will happen?

• A. All consumer will die
• B. Energy cycle will be inverted
• C. Balance of biogeochemical cycle will be disturbed
• D. Only herbivores will die

Answer 1

The correct option is C Balance of biogeochemical cycle will be disturbed

Decomposers are saprotrophs, which decompose the organic remains by secreting extracellular digestive enzymes. Due to degradation of organic remains, decomposers are also called as reducers. They are also known as mineralisers as they release minerals trapped in organic remains. Detrivores are decomposers as well as scavengers, e.g., earthworm. Decomposition of organic wastes and dead and decaying plants and animals returns the minerals locked in living systems back to the environment. Thus, decomposition is very important for the biogeochemical cycles, or nutrient cycling.