Living Environment Regents Practice Test

Which statement regarding decomposers is true?

1. They produce energy directly from sunlight

2. They convert dead organic matter into usable nutrients

3. They are primary producers in the food chain

4. They only function in aquatic ecosystems

The correct answer is: They convert dead organic matter into usable nutrients

Decomposers play a vital role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler materials. This process not only recycles nutrients back into the soil but also makes those nutrients available for usage by plants and other organisms. By converting this organic matter into usable nutrients, decomposers contribute to nutrient cycling, which is essential for maintaining the balance of ecosystems. This function supports primary producers, such as plants, which need those nutrients to grow and thrive. In contrast, the other statements do not accurately describe the role of decomposers. Decomposers do not produce energy directly from sunlight, as that function is characteristic of primary producers like plants and algae. They are not primary producers themselves, nor do they exclusively operate within aquatic ecosystems; decomposers function in various habitats, including terrestrial environments, demonstrating their essential role across diverse ecosystems.