What would be the ultimate effect on an ecosystem if decomposers were eliminated?
A) The rate of photosynthesis would increase.
B) The consumers would have to eat twice as much.
C) Energy flow between producers and consumers would increase.
D) All life would eventually cease due to a lack of available nutrients.
E) Producers would outgrow consumers.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Decomposers break down dead organisms and waste, returning essential nutrients to the soil, which are then taken up by plants. Without decomposers, these nutrients would not be recycled, leading to a depletion of essential nutrients for plant growth, ultimately affecting the entire food web and potentially leading to the cessation of all life.

What Would Be the Ultimate Effect on an Ecosystem If