Bacteria and fungi are called decomposers. Why ?
Bacteria and fungi are called decomposers. Why ?
Bacteria and fungi are called decomposers because they break down the complex organic substances present in dead remains and waste products of organisms into simple inorganic substances that go back into the soil.
Marking Scheme
- 11 Mark: Stating that they break down complex organic substances/dead remains into simple inorganic substances.
Hint
Think about how dead organic matter is converted back into simple soil nutrients.
Quick Oral Answer
They are called decomposers because they break down complex organic matter from dead organisms and waste products into simple inorganic substances that replenish the soil.
Analysis & Explanation
Decomposers play a vital role in the ecosystem. As per the NCERT text, they break down complex organic matter from dead plants and animals into simple inorganic nutrients. These inorganic substances are returned to the soil, making them available once again for uptake by plants (producers), thereby facilitating nutrient recycling.
Common Mistakes
- 1Simply stating that they 'clean the environment' or 'eat dead things' without explaining the chemical breakdown of complex organic substances to simple inorganic substances.
Interesting Facts
Without decomposers, essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon would remain locked inside dead organic matter, halting all plant growth and life on Earth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2012?
This question carries 1 mark in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2012 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in Science?
This question is from the chapter "Our Environment" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in Science?
This question covers the topic "Decomposers" from CBSE Class 10 Science.
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2012 paper?
This is a Very Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2012 paper.