Question

Which of the following is/are correct with respect to decomposers in an ecosystem?

• A. Decomposers trap solar energy
• B. Energy from decomposers are transferred to producers
• C. They are highly active in aerobic conditions
• D. They carry out mineralisation process in soil

Answer 1

Answer: (C), (D)

The correct options are
C They are highly active in aerobic conditions
D They carry out mineralisation process in soil

In an ecosystem solar energy is trapped by the producers which is converted into suitable chemical energy and transferred to consumers and decomposers in a food chain. Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms. In the process of decomposition, the soil decomposers break down the complex organic matter in plants and animal remains into minerals through the process of mineralistion. These minerals are specifically reused by the plants in an ecosystem as nutrients. Decomposition is an oxygen dependent process, therefore decomposers are active in aerobic conditions.