Textbook Question
Which of the following organisms is correctly paired with a trophic level?
a. cyanobacterium—secondary consumer
b. grasshopper—primary consumer
c. zooplankton—primary producer
d. grass—decomposer
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52. Ecosystems
Introduction to Ecosystems
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Decomposers are unique in that they:
A
Return nutrients from dead organisms back to primary producers in an inorganic form.
B
Can act as both primary producers & primary consumers.
C
Can consist of animals, plants, prokaryotes, or fungi.
D
Detoxify detritus, allowing primary producers to use the nutrients.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of decomposers in an ecosystem. Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Identify the primary function of decomposers: they convert organic materials from dead organisms into inorganic forms, which can be utilized by primary producers like plants.
Recognize that decomposers are not primary producers or consumers. They do not produce their own food through photosynthesis nor consume other organisms for energy.
Note the diversity of decomposers: they can include various organisms such as fungi, bacteria (prokaryotes), and some animals, but not plants.
Clarify the misconception about detoxification: decomposers do not detoxify detritus; instead, they break it down, making nutrients available in a form that primary producers can absorb.
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