B17.2 Materials cycling

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Microorganisms and the recycling of materials:

The decomposers are a group of microorganisms that include bacteria and fungi. They feed on waste droppings and dead organisms.

Detritus feeders, or detritivores, such as maggots and some types of worms and beetles, often start the process of decay. They eat dead animals and produce waste material. The bacteria and fungi then digest everything - dead animals, plants, and detritus feeders plus their waste. They use some of the nutrients grow and reproduce and release carbon dioxide, water, and mineral ions as waste products.

Image result for the decay cycle (http://www.expertguidance.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/image004.png)

Decomposers return mineral ions, including nitrates, to the soil. Plants take them up through their roots and use them to make proteins and other chemicals in their…

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