_____ are important decomposers that cause decay and decomposition of ...
Saprophytic bacteria are free living bacteria which obtain their food from organic remains, e.g., corpses, animal excreta, fallen leaves, vegetables, fruits, meat, jams, jellies, bread and other products of plant and animal origin. Aerobic breakdown of organic compounds is known as decay. In nature saprophytic bacteria alongwith saprotrophic fungi are the decomposers of organic remains.
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_____ are important decomposers that cause decay and decomposition of ...
Explanation:
Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as dead bodies of plants and animals, into simpler substances. They play a vital role in recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Two important decomposers that cause decay and decomposition of dead bodies are saprotrophic bacteria and saprotrophic fungi.
Saprotrophic bacteria:
- Saprotrophic bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that obtain their nutrients by breaking down dead organic matter.
- They secrete enzymes that break down complex organic molecules into simpler compounds that can be absorbed by the bacteria.
- These bacteria are found in various habitats, including soil, water, and even the human body.
- They are responsible for the decomposition of a wide range of organic matter, including dead plants and animals.
Saprotrophic fungi:
- Saprotrophic fungi are multicellular organisms that obtain their nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter.
- They secrete enzymes that break down complex organic molecules, such as cellulose and lignin, into simpler compounds that can be absorbed by the fungi.
- Fungi play a crucial role in breaking down tough plant materials, such as wood and leaves, into simpler substances.
- They are commonly found in soil, decaying logs, and other organic-rich environments.
Importance of saprotrophic bacteria and fungi:
- Saprotrophic bacteria and fungi are essential for the decomposition of dead bodies of plants and animals.
- They break down complex organic matter into simpler compounds, releasing nutrients back into the environment.
- This nutrient recycling is crucial for the functioning of ecosystems, as it allows other organisms to utilize those nutrients for growth and development.
- Additionally, the decomposition process helps to prevent the accumulation of dead organic matter, which can be a breeding ground for disease-causing organisms.
- Saprotrophic bacteria and fungi also play a role in the carbon cycle, as they convert organic carbon into carbon dioxide, which can be used by plants during photosynthesis.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, saprotrophic bacteria and fungi are important decomposers that cause decay and decomposition of dead bodies of plants and animals. They play a vital role in nutrient recycling and the functioning of ecosystems. Both saprotrophic bacteria and saprotrophic fungi are necessary for efficient decomposition processes.
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