Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R:
Assertion (A): Temperature and soil moisture are the most important climatic factors that regulate decomposition.
Reason (R): Temperature and soil moisture effect activities of soil microbes.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A

Assertion (A): Temperature and soil moisture are key climatic factors governing decomposition, impacting microbial activity rates.

Reason (R) states that temperature and soil moisture affect the activities of soil microbes. This is also true. Soil microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, play a crucial role in decomposition processes. Temperature influences microbial activity by affecting metabolic rates; warmer temperatures generally increase microbial activity, leading to faster decomposition rates. Soil moisture, on the other hand, affects microbial activity by providing the necessary water for metabolic processes. Adequate moisture is essential for microbial growth and activity. However, excessive moisture can lead to anaerobic conditions, which may alter microbial communities and slow down decomposition rates.