6.5.4 - Recycling within ecosystems ( CARBON CYCLE )

• define decomposers

  organisms that feed on organic matter and turn them into inorganic stuff
• • what are decomposers described as?

  saprotrophs
• what do saprotrophs do?

  they secrete enzymes out of their body to their surroundings, digest them then absorb it back into their body ( extended digestion)
• define detritivore


  organism that feeds on organic matter by internal digestion, which increases its surface area to speed up the process of decomposition
• draw the carbon cycle and give me a brief explanation

  1. co2 in air
  2. plants : photosynthesis, respiration, feeding to animals
  3. animals: respiration, feeding (from plants), decomposers to dead matter
  4. decomposers to dead matter
  5. dead matter: decomposition( from animals + plants, decomposers, formation of fossil fuels).
  6. fossil fuels: combustion to air