Which process plays an important role in the biogeochemical cycles of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus?

a.) photosynthesis
b.) transpiration
c.) decomposition
d.) respiration

Decomposition is the process that plays an important role in biogeochemical cycles of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus.

Decomposition is the process of breaking down the wastes materials and the dead remains of plants and animals to generate nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus for the soil.

Further Explanation:DecomposersDecomposers are heterotrophic organisms which get their nutrition by breaking down remains of dead plants and animals.Examples of decomposers include Fungi, bacteria, snails, etc. is the process of breaking down the dead remains of plants and animals and wastes to generate nutrients for the soil.It  plays an important role in an ecosystem.Importance of decomposition in an ecosystemIt helps in recycling of the nutrients such as carbon and nitrogen in an ecosystem.Dead organic material is broken down into water, minerals, carbon dioxide and other chemicals that can be consumed by plants. Nutrients are returned to the soil from where plants can reuse the same.Therefore, nutrients obtained from the dead organisms and wastes are recycled back into the soil to be used by producers.In addition, they help in removing or cleaning the dead matter and waste material from the ecosystem.Other roles of decomposers in an ecosystem include, nitrogen fixation, nitrogen and carbon recycling and maintenance of the ecosystem by cleaning up dead material through decomposing it and recycling nutrients into the soil.

Keywords: Decomposers,decomposition, importance of decomposition to an ecosystem.

Learn more about:  Decomposers and their roles: Importance of decomposers: Role of decomposers:

Level: High school  

Subject: Biology  

Topic: Ecology

Sub-topic: Decomposers