In the food web, one example of a decomposer is the mushroom. Mushrooms are considered decomposers because they break down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, returning essential nutrients to the soil, which supports the growth of producers. If all decomposers were to disappear from this ecosystem, dead plant and animal material would accumulate, leading to a lack of nutrient recycling. This could result in depleted soil quality, ultimately harming producers and disrupting the entire food web, which could lead to a decrease in biodiversity and stability within the ecosystem.
Use the food web below to answer the question.
In 2-4 sentences, respond to the following points:
Identify at least one decomposer in this food web.
Explain why the organism you chose is considered a decomposer, citing evidence from the diagram.
Predict what might happen to this ecosystem if the decomposers all disappeared. Explain your reasoning.
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