19.2.2

Decomposers

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Decomposers

Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, are responsible for recycling organic matter within an ecosystem. They produce compost, which is used by farmers to return important nutrients to the soil.

Illustrative background for EnzymesIllustrative background for Enzymes ?? "content

Enzymes

  • Decomposers break down dead material by secreting (producing) enzymes.
  • Enzymes partly digest the waste products, producing small and soluble food molecules.
  • These small soluble molecules can then diffuse into the decomposer.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

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