The Major Role of Detrivores in Ecosystems is To

Question

The major role of detrivores in ecosystems is to
A)provide a nutritional resource for heterotrophs.
B)recycle chemical nutrients to a form capable of being used by autotrophs.
C)prevent the buildup of the organic remains of organisms, feces, and so on.
D)return energy lost to the ecosystem by other organisms.

Accepted Answer

Detrivores play a crucial role in recycling chemical nutrients in ecosystems by breaking down dead organic matter, such as leaves, dead animals, and feces, into simpler forms that can be used by autotrophs, such as plants. This process, known as decomposition, releases nutrients back into the soil, which can be taken up by plants and used in their growth and development. Without detrivores, the buildup of dead organic matter would lead to a decrease in the overall productivity of an ecosystem.