Question

which statement describes the flow of matter and energy in decomposers? choose the correct answer. a decomposer consumes dead or dying organisms to produce oxygen and sugars. a decomposer digests living organisms to produce energy, water, and carbon dioxide. a decomposer breaks down decaying matter to produce energy and release nutrients back into the environment.

Explanation:

• Analyze Option A: Decomposers do not produce oxygen and sugars; producers (like plants) do photosynthesis to make sugars and oxygen. So A is incorrect.
• Analyze Option B: Decomposers break down dead or decaying matter, not living organisms (consumers eat living organisms). So B is incorrect.
• Analyze Option C: Decomposers (like fungi, bacteria) break down decaying matter, obtain energy, and release nutrients (like nitrogen, phosphorus) and elements (water, carbon dioxide) back into the environment. This matches the role of decomposers.

Answer:

C. A decomposer breaks down decaying matter to produce energy and release nutrients back into the environment.