Question

In what way are decomposers like producers?
A. Either one may be the first member of a grazing food chain
B. Both produce oxygen for other forms of life
C. Both require a source of nutrient molecules and energy
D. Both supply organic food for the biosphere

Answer 1

Hint: The word producers are used for the organisms who can make their own food. For example – plants are called as the producers because plants can make their own food with the help of the process called as photosynthesis (it is a process by which plants can make their own food with the help of water, carbon dioxide and sunlight).

Complete answer:
1. Decomposers are the organisms that feed on the dead and decayed matter.
2. They are similar to producers as Both producers and decomposers require a source of nutrient molecules and energy.
3. Producers get energy from the organic matter which they make on their own.
4. Decomposers get the energy or nutrients by breaking down dead organisms and animal wastes or plant matter.
5. During the process of feeding of decomposers, the decomposers release nutrients such as carbon and nitrogen back into the environment.
6. The nutrients are recycled and plants absorb these nutrients for their growth.
7. Decomposers include microorganisms such as fungi, some bacteria, etc, vultures, etc.
Therefore, it has been clear from the above discussion that the decomposers and producers both require a source of nutrient molecules and energy.

Hence the correct answer is Option(C)

Note: Decomposers help in the recycling of nutrients back into the environment. Decomposers also play a major role in the food chain and provide nutrients for the producers. Without the decomposers the dead and decayed part of the plants and animals would keep piling up everywhere and lead to many diseases and disorders.