In a natural ecosystem, decomposers include

A) Only microscopic animals

B) Only bacteria and fungi

C) The above two types of organisms plus microscopic animals

D) None of the above

• Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, facilitating the process of decomposition.
• Decomposers are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain their energy, carbon, and nutrients by consuming organic matter. They play a crucial role in every ecosystem.
• Without decomposers, dead organisms could not be broken down and recycled into other biological forms. Decomposers do not need to internally absorb organic material for breakdown; instead, they use biochemical reactions to decompose matter.

Key Points About Decomposers:

• Microscopic Decomposers: Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, are often microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye.
• Bacteria are single-celled, microscopic organisms that are found almost everywhere on Earth. During decomposition, bacteria break down their hosts and release nutrients that support other bacterial growth.
• Fungi, another major group of decomposers, consist of hyphae (branching filaments) that can penetrate organic matter, making them effective at decomposing substances.

Thus, the correct answer is Option (C): These two types of organisms (bacteria and fungi) and other microscopic animals play key roles in decomposition.