Which term describes an organism that consumes and breaks down dead organisms or plant matter?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Study for the 9th Grade Biology SOL Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which term describes an organism that consumes and breaks down dead organisms or plant matter?

Explanation:
Decomposers are the organisms that break down dead matter and recycle nutrients. They do this by releasing enzymes that chemically break down complex organic molecules into simpler inorganic substances, which speeds up nutrient recycling in ecosystems. Classic examples are fungi and bacteria. This differs from detritivores, which mainly physically break apart detritus and digest it, and scavengers, which consume dead animals without necessarily decomposing the material into nutrients. Producers, on the other hand, make their own food from inorganic sources.

Decomposers are the organisms that break down dead matter and recycle nutrients. They do this by releasing enzymes that chemically break down complex organic molecules into simpler inorganic substances, which speeds up nutrient recycling in ecosystems. Classic examples are fungi and bacteria. This differs from detritivores, which mainly physically break apart detritus and digest it, and scavengers, which consume dead animals without necessarily decomposing the material into nutrients. Producers, on the other hand, make their own food from inorganic sources.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy