Bacteria are the primary decomposers of dead animals (carrion) and are the primary decomposers of dead plant matter (litter) in some ecosystems. In soils, where decomposition occurs in terrestrial ecosystems, bacteria are capable of rapid growth and reproduction. read more
Decomposers break down the organic substrates via biochemical reactions that convert the substrates into metabolically useful products. This removes the need for internal digestive organs in decomposers. For this reason, most decomposers are bacteria and fungi. Bacteria are widespread and can break down a myriad of organic matter. read more
For this reason, most decomposers are bacteria and fungi. Bacteria are widespread and can break down a myriad of organic matter. Typically 1 gram of soil contains around 40 million bacterial cells that can break down organic molecules in the soil, which in turn produce more soil. read more