Decay and decomposition
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9 Terms
decomposition
the breakdown of dead matter
how does decomposition work
detrivores feed on dead matter to break it down into smaller pieces for the decomposers to fully break down
decomposer examples
bacteria and fungi
importance of decay
cells contain compounds eg. glucose/carbs/proteins and they are broken down into glucose/fatty acids and glycerol/amino acids and they release CO2 for plants
extracellular digestion / saprophytic feeding
organisms break down food substances into simple nutrients outside of their cells, by secreting digestive enzymes
decay conditions
moisture, warmth, oxygen
why is oxygen needed for decay
decomposers need to respire aerobically
why is moisture needed for decay
it is a solvent to transport nutrients
why is warmth needed for decay (not heat)
the enzymes need to work at an optimum temperature but not be denatured