Write significance of decomposition
Answers
The term decomposition means “to break down”. It typically corresponds to the disintegration or rupture of complex organic matter into a simpler inorganic matter. It is one of the significant and essential processes of the ecosystem. Hence, decomposition is a metabolic process, taking up raw materials in the form of complex compounds, processing it and then converting it into simpler compounds.
Bacteria, fungi and a few other microorganisms initiate the process of decomposition and are known as decomposers. They feed on dead organisms to survive.
The decaying and dead animals and plants serve as the raw materials which, on the breakdown, produces nutrients, carbon dioxide, and water, etc. Detritus are the raw materials such as dead animals, plants and their remains. Microbes then process this detritus which are collectively known as saprophy
Explanation:
Decomposition of organic matter (i.e. dead plant and animal remains) in soils is an important process in any ecosystem.
Decomposer microorganisms feed on the organic matter and break it down into its simplest components. As organic matter is decomposed, water, carbon dioxide and nutrients are released. Meaning that, any excess nutrients are released and are available for plants to use to grow.
Without this process, nutrients consumed by plants and animals would remain locked in their tissue and have no way of returning to the soil after they die; resulting in soil that is low in nutrients and of poor quality for plant growth.
It is for this reason that decomposition rate is often used in science as an indicator of soil health.