Question

The _______ form decomposers in the pond ecosystem.
A. Plants
B. Bacteria
C. Frogs
D. Phytoplanktons

Answer 1

Hint: Organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms are known as decomposers. Decomposition carried out by these organisms, a process that is only conceivable in specific kingdoms, such as fungi. Decomposers are heterotrophic, like herbivores and predators which means that they use organic substrates to get their energy, carbon and nutrients for their growth and development.

Complete answer:
Option A) Plants: Plants are autotrophs or so-called producers and make their own food using chemical or light energy. Green plants obtain most of their energy from sunlight from the process of photosynthesis. Plants are not decomposers. Decomposers such as saprophytic fungi and bacteria absorb nutrients from non-living organic material such as fallen plants.
Hence option A is not correct.
Option B) Bacteria: A large domain of prokaryotic microorganisms is constituted by bacteria. The bacteria are decomposers and have the ability to break down dead organisms into smaller particles to create new compounds. Decomposers can be used to restore the natural nutrient cycle through a process called controlled composting.
Hence option B is the correct answer.
Option C) Frogs: The member of a diverse and largely carnivorous group of short-bodied, tailless amphibians composing the order Anura are called frogs. Frogs are not decomposers. In the food chain, frogs play the role of both predators and prey.
Hence option C is not correct.
Option D) Phytoplanktons: These are autotrophic components of the plankton community and are a key part of ocean and freshwater ecosystems. They are not decomposers.
Hence option D is also not correct.

Hence, Option B) Bacteria is the correct answer.

Note:
Bacteria and fungi are included in decomposers. The decomposers carry out the decomposition process, which all living organisms go through after death. Since decomposition allows organic material to be recycled in an ecosystem, it is an important process. Decomposers get their energy from ingesting organic material; hence they are heterotrophic.