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Chapter 5: Problem 5

Describe different members of the decomposition food web.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The decomposition food web includes producers (plants), primary decomposers (bacteria and fungi), secondary and tertiary decomposers (invertebrates and vertebrates), and the final stage is the decomposed material being incorporated back into the soil as nutrients.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction

Firstly, recognize that the decomposition food web is composed of different types of members. Each member carries out a unique role in the recycling of organic matter.
02

Describe Producers

Producers are organisms such as plants that generate their own food through photosynthesis. Even though they are not decomposers themselves, they play an essential role in providing organic matter for decomposers when they die.
03

Describe Primary Decomposers

Primary decomposers include bacteria and fungi. They are the first to break down dead organic material by secreting enzymes that metabolize it into simpler substances.
04

Describe Secondary and Tertiary Decomposers

Secondary decomposers are mainly small invertebrates, like soil mites and springtails that feed on the organic material and the primary decomposers. Tertiary decomposers include larger invertebrates such as centipedes and beetles, and even vertebrates like frogs and mice that feed on the secondary decomposers.
05

Describe the Final Stage of Decomposition

Finally, the decomposed organic material (humus) is fully incorporated back into the soil. This completes the cycle as it provides nutrients for producers to grow, thus starting the new cycle.

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