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How do you think plants decompose and what factors effect decomposition?
Wiki User
∙ 13y ago
What is Decomposition?
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 saprophytes.
Also refer: Putrefaction
Let us know more in detail about its process and the major factors affecting the process of decomposition.
Factors Affecting Decomposition
Following are the important factors affecting the rate of decomposition:
Litter Quality
The rate of decomposition depends on the structural and chemical properties of litter. For eg., the litter of bryophytes are decomposed at a slower rate due to the presence of lignin like complex chemicals.
Temperature
Temperature regulates the growth and activity of microorganisms. The temperature is different at different elevations. The species diversity and the microorganism count is affected by environmental changes.
Aeration
The oxygen present in the pores of the soil helps in the growth of microorganisms. In the water-logged soils, the aerobic microorganisms are absent. Here only anaerobic microorganisms can grow and initiate decomposition.
Soil pH
The presence of cations and anions governs the pH of the soil, which in turn affects microbial growth.
Inorganic Chemicals
After decomposition, the elements like potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium are released into the soil. Some of these are used by the microorganisms for their growth. Thus, it affects the rate of decomposition.
Moisture
The water present in the soil is responsible for various physiological processes of microorganisms present in the soil. The growth of microorganisms is thus governed by the presence of moisture in the soil.
Chanu Niroshan
Jessika Herman
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What is the role of detritus feeders in an ecosystem?
Detrivores are animals like earthworms. They chew dead organisms into simpler substances so decomposers like mushrooms can decompose the dead organisms at a faster rate. Decomposers give out carbon dioxide which is needed for plants to photosynthesise and make food. So by speeding the rate of decomposition, plants can live healthier.
Does algae break down dead plants and animals?
Fungi are responsible for the decomposition of plants and animals.
What ways does earth depend on bacteria?
Bacteria helps in decomposition to create ecological balance. When something dies, it is bacteria that acts upon it to decompose so another organism can find it useful. Besides, bacteria also helps to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into a form that plants can use.
How does carbon move from plants and animals into the soil?
It is used by plants in the process of photosynthesis and animas eat plants which already have carbon.
Why is it important to break down dead matter?
Take it this way: without the organisms decomposing dead animals, the world will be filled with dead animals. Plus, this decomposition of dead animals supply nutrients and minerals to plants as the process does break down complex organisms into simple material plants can use.
What is the effect of plants on the abiotic environment during primary succession?
The roots of the plants can break down rocks to form soil particles. They can also prevent erosion by holding the soil. Plants can add humus to the soil as They decompose returning minerals. The presence of plants aerates soil, provides shade and reduces water content as well.
When plants and animals die they do this it means to brake down into bits what is it?
When plants and animals die, they decompose (so do humans). All matter especially carbon matter decomposes. Decomposition frees nutrients for other plants, animals, and insects. Dying is nature's great recycler of matter, nutrients, and energy.
Is decomposition of plants animals or insects reversible?
no
Is a plants a producer or consumer or decompose?
A producer!
Can plastic decompose in cement?
no but it breaks up into tiny pieces but does not decompose
Which type of organism helps with decomposition?
Soil organisms aid in the decomposition process. Decomposition is a process in which animals and plants bodies rot and break down.
What is the role of detritus feeders in an ecosystem?
Detrivores are animals like earthworms. They chew dead organisms into simpler substances so decomposers like mushrooms can decompose the dead organisms at a faster rate. Decomposers give out carbon dioxide which is needed for plants to photosynthesise and make food. So by speeding the rate of decomposition, plants can live healthier.
How do decmposers work?
The decomposers go to the decaying or dying material in order to decompose the organic material. They consume dead plants, animals or even our own feces, which are all decaying organic materials. They also carry out the natural process of decomposition :)
Why is decomposition essential in an ecosystem?
it is because if decomposition will not take place then roots of plants will become naughty and start dancing
What do dead plants and animals become when they die?
they decompose
Why is decomposition so important to the environment?
Because once decomposition of fruit, vegetables and plants have been completed, it can then be used to fertilize new fruit/veg and plants that are still seeds.
How does decomposition benefits the plants?
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