In three to five sentences, describe what would happen to ecosystems if decomposers did not exist on Earth. Make sure your explanation includes a definition of decomposers. (4 points) Make it SHORT.

Answer 1

Decomposers are organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that break down dead organic material and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem. If decomposers did not exist, dead plants and animals would accumulate, leading to a depletion of nutrients in the soil. This would hinder plant growth, disrupt food chains, and ultimately destabilize entire ecosystems. Without decomposers, the cycle of life would be severely compromised, resulting in a decline in biodiversity and ecosystem health.