9.18: rate of decompostion in composting

How can temperature affect composting?

When decomposers break down compost, the compost heap becomes warmer due to the respiration of the bacteria and fungi generating heat - however, at extremely high temperatures, enzymes become denatured and so decomposition will stop. Higher temperatures cause a faster rate of decomposition

How can water content affect composting?

A relatively high water content is required as microbes work best when they have access to water, since many decomposers secrete enzymes onto decaying matter and then absorb dissolved molecules. However, if the water levels are too high, this process might become anaerobic as oxygen can no longer get into the compost, leading most decomposers to die

How can oxygen availability affect composting?

Decomposers need oxygen to survive, so having a high oxygen content will increase the rate of decomposition since oxygen is required for respiration, allowing decomposers to multiply and grow

What are the conditions in peat bogs?

Low oxygen content, low temperature and acidic water, leading to very little decomposition and high preservation - human remains have been found preserved in peat bogs