With 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.

Key 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.