Asked by Corinna Ragsdale on Jun 26, 2024
Verified
Which group of organisms is mostly saprotrophic decomposers that assist in recycling of nutrients in ecosystems.
A) Algae
B) Viruses
C) Fungi
D) Protozoans
E) Ciliates
Saprotrophic Decomposers
Organisms that decompose organic matter by secreting digestive enzymes, absorbing and recycling nutrients.
Recycling
The process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects, aiming to reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials.
Nutrients
Substances obtained from food that are essential for growth, metabolism, and for maintaining life.
- Detail the contributions of fungi to ecosystem dynamics and their economic ramifications.
- Recognize the importance of studying protists and fungi in understanding biodiversity and ecological balance.
Verified Answer
SS
Sania ShahidJun 30, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Fungi are mostly saprotrophic decomposers that assist in recycling of nutrients in ecosystems. They break down dead organic matter and release nutrients back into the soil or water for other organisms to use. Algae, protozoans, and ciliates are not primarily decomposers, and viruses are not considered living organisms and do not have the ability to decompose organic matter.
Learning Objectives
- Detail the contributions of fungi to ecosystem dynamics and their economic ramifications.
- Recognize the importance of studying protists and fungi in understanding biodiversity and ecological balance.