University of Central Florida (UCF) BSC1005 Biological Principles Practice Exam 1

Decomposers play a vital role in an ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter and recycling nutrients. This process is essential for maintaining the health of the ecosystem, as it ensures that nutrients locked in dead plants and animals are returned to the soil. This recycling makes these nutrients available for use by primary producers, such as plants, which rely on them for growth.

Without decomposers, ecosystems would accumulate dead material, and the essential nutrients would remain trapped, thereby impeding the growth of new life. Thus, decomposers contribute significantly to nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and overall ecosystem stability, making option C the correct answer.