Understanding Decomposers

What is the primary role of decomposers in a forest ecosystem?

• To produce oxygen

• To provide shelter for animals

• To break down dead matter

• To absorb sunlight

Decomposers break down dead matter into which of the following?

• Sound and energy

• Nutrients and water

• Electricity and magnetism

• Light and heat

How do decomposers contribute to the survival of primary producers?

• By recycling nutrients

• By providing shade

• By producing seeds

• By pollinating flowers

What is a key nutrient that decomposers release back into the environment?

• Helium

• Nitrogen

• Silicon

• Gold

Which of the following is NOT a type of decomposer?

• Fungi

• Bacteria

• Earthworm

• Eagle

What do detritivores primarily consume?

• Living plants

• Dead matter

• Sunlight

• Freshwater

Which of the following organisms can be seen without a microscope?

• Viruses

• Mushrooms

• Microscopic fungi

• Bacteria

What is the term for animals that consume dead matter and return nutrients to the soil?

• Omnivores

• Carnivores

• Herbivores

• Detritivores

What would be a major consequence if decomposers were absent from an ecosystem?

• More sunlight absorption

• Faster plant growth

• Accumulation of dead matter

• Increased oxygen levels

Which process do plants rely on that is supported by the nutrients from decomposers?

• Condensation

• Evaporation

• Respiration

• Photosynthesis