What would happen if decomposition did not occur?

Answer 1

If decomposition did not occur, dead organic matter would accumulate, leading to a significant disruption in ecosystems. Nutrient cycling would be severely affected, as essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus would remain locked in non-living matter, resulting in soil degradation and reduced fertility. This would ultimately threaten plant growth, disrupt food chains, and lead to a decline in biodiversity, as organisms dependent on decomposed materials for sustenance would struggle to survive. Overall, the balance of ecosystems would be severely compromised, impacting all forms of life.