Question

The breakdown of detritus into smaller particles by earthworm is a process called as

• A. Humification
• B. Fragmentation
• C. Mineralisation
• D. Catabolism

Answer 1

The correct option is B Fragmentation

Steps of decomposition are:

a. Fragmentation: It is the breakdown of detritus into smaller particles by detritivores (e.g., earthworm).

b. Leaching: By this process, water soluble inorganic nutrients go down into the soil horizon and get precipitated as unavailable salts.

c. Catabolism: Degradation of detritus into simpler inorganic substances by bacterial and fungal enzymes. Fragmentation, leaching and catabolism operate simultaneously on the detritus.

d. Humification: Accumulation of humus (dark amorphous substance) in soil. Humus is resistant to microbial action and so decomposes very slowly.

e. Mineralization: It is the release of inorganic nutrients due to the degradation of humus some microbes.