Question

What is the role of microbes in compost production?

Answer 1

Hint: Since the compost is organic matter that has been decomposed, the microorganisms serve as decomposers in the process of compost production by breaking down dead or decaying organisms.

Complete step-by-step answer:
In the process of composting or compost production, microorganisms break down the organic matter serving as decomposers and in this process, some carbon dioxide, water, and heat are released. The decomposed material when applied to the fields, it gives a richer soil and improves plant growth and health. The role of different microorganisms in the process of composting has been given below –
Bacteria – These are single-celled prokaryotic organisms and they make up around 80-90% of all organisms that are found in the composed, thus are most abundant. They secrete a variety of enzymes that break down the organic material by the process of oxidation and in turn, they get some resources to form the material for their growth and reproduction.
Actinomycetes – These microorganisms belong to higher classes of bacteria as they are more developed than the typical bacteria and are closer to the moulds and fungi. They break down those resistant materials that can’t be broken down by the normal bacteria. Such materials include protein, cellulose, starches, etc.
Fungi – These are the third type of microorganisms that help in the production of compost. Especially, moulds and yeasts are especially involved in the process of composting and these fungi are considered experts in breaking down the toughest debris through their enzymes. The broken debris is further decomposed by the bacteria.

Note:
Though the microorganisms are too small, they secrete some enzymes that are lytic and can cause the breaking and destruction of various chemical bonds present in the different chemical compounds. This property is found to be useful in compost production because they decompose the compounds present in the waste materials in an effective and environmentally friendly manner.