Question
Download Solution PDFWith reference to the food chains in ecosystems, which of the following kinds of organism is / are known as decomposer organism/organisms?
1. Virus
2. Fungi
3. Bacteria
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFKey Points
- Fungi and bacteria are known as decomposer organisms.
- They play a crucial role in breaking down dead organic material and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
- Decomposers are essential for the decomposition process, which ensures the continuous availability of nutrients for plants and other organisms.
- Viruses are not considered decomposers as they do not break down organic material.
Additional Information
- Decomposers
- Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms and waste products, contributing to the recycling of nutrients in ecosystems.
- They convert complex organic substances into simpler inorganic substances, which can be taken up and used by plants.
- Fungi and bacteria are the primary decomposers in many ecosystems, playing a vital role in nutrient cycling and energy flow.
- Fungi
- Fungi are a kingdom of spore-producing organisms that feed on organic matter, including molds, yeast, mushrooms, and toadstools.
- They are essential decomposers in ecosystems, breaking down complex organic substances into simpler compounds.
- Fungi release enzymes that digest organic material externally, and then absorb the resulting small nutrient molecules.
- Bacteria
- Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can be found in almost every environment on Earth.
- Many bacteria are decomposers that break down organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the environment for use by other organisms.
- Bacteria play a key role in processes such as nitrogen fixation, decomposition, and nutrient cycling.
- Virus
- Viruses are microscopic infectious agents that can only replicate inside the living cells of organisms.
- They are not considered decomposers because they do not break down organic material or contribute to nutrient cycling.
- Viruses infect all types of life forms, from animals and plants to microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea.
Last updated on May 16, 2025
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