In ecology, decomposers are heterotrophic organisms—primarily bacteria and fungi—that chemically break down dead organic matter, waste products, and detritus into simpler inorganic compounds. They secrete extracellular enzymes that hydrolyze complex polymers such as cellulose, lignin, chitin, proteins, and lipids into soluble molecules that can be assimilated and further mineralized to CO₂, NH₄⁺, PO₄³⁻, and other nutrients. Decomposers thus mediate key biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur), regulate soil organic matter dynamics, influence ecosystem respiration, and determine nutrient availability for primary producers, strongly affecting ecosystem productivity, stability, and succession patterns.
Earthworms don't stop shaping soil processes when they die. A new study shows they can still help store carbon in the soil, even after death. "This is quite surprising," says lead author Tullia Calogiuri. "Most of our knowledge ...
Earth Sciences
Nov 3, 2025
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33
When 115,000 tons of food waste hit Surrey's processing facility each year, an invisible army goes to work—billions of microbes convert everything from banana peels to leftover pizza into renewable natural gas (RNG). Now, ...
Cell & Microbiology
Oct 23, 2025
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125
University of Minnesota researchers studied the microbial degradation of the USS Cairo, one of the first ironclad and steam-powered gunboats used in the United States Civil War. Studies of microbial degradation of historic ...
Ecology
Oct 22, 2025
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802
Farmers handle a wide range of responsibilities to keep operations running—and a routine but often overlooked duty is safely disposing of dead livestock. Left unattended, carcasses can spread disease and jeopardize entire ...
Plants & Animals
Oct 21, 2025
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19
From pollinating flowers to enabling decomposition and supporting nutrient cycles, insects' abundance and biodiversity are critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems. However, recent studies showing population declines have ...
Plants & Animals
Sep 11, 2025
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For years, scientists have marveled at bacteria's ability to digest the seemingly indigestible, including carbon from lignin, the tough, woody material that gives plants their rigidity.
Cell & Microbiology
Sep 2, 2025
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151
When a tree dies, it forms the foundation for new life: In a slow, invisible process, leaves, wood and roots are gradually decomposed—not by wind or weather, but by millions and millions of tiny organisms.
Evolution
Aug 28, 2025
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43
Just like any living organism, the soil has its own metabolism. Plants, worms, insects, and most importantly, microorganisms in the soil break down organic matter, consume and generate nutrients, and process other materials ...
Ecology
Jul 16, 2025
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31
When large marine animals like whales die, they sink down to the seabed. Once their flesh has been stripped away by scavengers and microbes, their corpses are colonized by a variety of specialized invertebrates that feast ...
Paleontology & Fossils
Jul 9, 2025
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194
A study led by Dr. Guanghui Yu from School of Earth System Science, Tianjin University, delved into the role of magnetite nanoparticles as nanozyme mimics.
Bio & Medicine
Sep 26, 2023
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