Biological Science (6th Edition)

Published by Benjamin Cummings
ISBN 10: 0321976495
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-649-9

Chapter 53 - Ecosystems and Global Ecology - Review - Page 1137: 6

Answer

The rate of decomposition depends on the climate of the region. It increases in a hot and humid climate while decreases in a cold and dry climate. The decomposers are responsible for regulating the nutrient cycle in the ecosystems.

Work Step by Step

The availability of oxygen, moisture, and temperature determine the rate of decomposition. The regions that have a hot and humid climate tend to show a fast decomposition rate in comparison to regions with a cool and dry climate. Thus, a field in Nebraska will have a slower decomposition rate than the field in Amazon. The decomposers like bacteria and fungi utilize the nutrients in the litter and change the complex organic matter into readily utilizable inorganic nutrients. Thus, these decomposers regulate the availability of nutrients in the ecosystems, which enter the food chain through the plants.
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