Question

Which one of the following processes during decomposition is correctly described?

• A. Fragmentation - Carried out by organisms such as earthworm
• B. Humification - Leads to the accumulation of a dark-colored substance humus which undergoes microbial action at a very fast rate
• C. Catabolism - Last step in the decomposition under fully anaerobic condition
• D. Leaching - Water soluble inorganic nutrients rise to the top layers of soil

Answer 1

The correct option is A Fragmentation - Carried out by organisms such as earthworm

Fragmentation - It is the first step in the process of decomposition. Fragmentation means the breakdown of detritus into smaller pieces by the detritivores.
Mineralisation is the final step in decomposition such as earthworms.
Humification is the way the dead organic matter (leaves, twigs etc) is converted to humus by the action of decomposers such as bacteria and fungi.
Leaching occurs when the air spaces in the soil become filled with water and gravity begins to move water downward. The percolating water carries any soluble salts that are present in the soil