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Dictionary » D » Decomposer

Decomposer

Definition

noun, plural: decomposers

(ecology) An organism whose ecological function involves the recycling of nutrients by performing the natural process of decomposition as it feeds on dead or decaying organisms.


Supplement

Examples of decomposers are fungi and bacteria that obtain their nutrients from dead plant or animal material. They break down cells of dead plants and animals into simpler substances, which become organic nutrients available to the ecosystem.


Word origin: decompose + -er

Compare: detritivore


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decomposer

A scavenger ingests dead organisms. A decomposer lives in or on food supplies and absorbs organic energy not harvested by consumers, leaving inorganic elements to the environment for recycling.

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by gamar
Fri Jul 25, 2008 2:00 am
 
Forum: Ecology
Topic: decomposer
Replies: 7
Views: 6207

Re: decomposer

the difference is that the scavengers eats those which was left by other animals or which may have died from illness or old age they use their canines to tear the flesh but the decomposers are mostly microorganism that doesnt have canines such as saprophites(produces enzymes to digest the food exter...

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by volcob
Mon Jan 14, 2008 10:21 am
 
Forum: Ecology
Topic: decomposer
Replies: 7
Views: 6207

decomposer

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decomposer

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by mith
Tue Jun 05, 2007 12:24 am
 
Forum: Ecology
Topic: decomposer
Replies: 7
Views: 6207

decomposer

What’s the difference between decomposer and Scavenger? According to the definitions that i read, they both eat dead organisms? Hope you can tell me, thanks.

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by MIA6
Mon Jun 04, 2007 11:14 pm
 
Forum: Ecology
Topic: decomposer
Replies: 7
Views: 6207

Succession...plz help

i need help with a study guide for my biology class...i need definitions for the following terms... succession climax community decomposer community ecology niche mutualism commensalism parasitism symbiosis (i really dont understand this one) autotroph heterotroph if you can help with ...

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by darksideofcloud
Thu Nov 02, 2006 4:25 am
 
Forum: Ecology
Topic: Succession...plz help
Replies: 4
Views: 1782
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