Question

The only heterotrophs required in an ecosystem are

• A. Omnivores
• B. Herbivores
• C. Decomposers
• D. Autotrophs

Answer 1

The correct option is C Decomposers

Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, and in doing so, they carry out the natural process of decomposition. Like herbivores and predators, decomposers are heterotrophic, meaning that they use organic substrates to get their energy, carbon and nutrients for growth and development. While the terms decomposer and detritivore are often interchangeably used, detritivores must ingest and digest dead matter via internal processes while decomposers can directly absorb nutrients through chemical and biological processes hence breaking down matter without ingesting it. The primary decomposer of litter in many ecosystems are fungi.

So the correct option is 'decomposers'.