What role do decomposers play in the ecosystem?

Decomposers play a critical role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil. This process is essential for maintaining the health of the ecosystem. When plants and animals die, their bodies are broken down by decomposers, such as fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms. This decomposition releases nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus back into the soil, making them available for plants to use for growth.

This nutrient cycling is fundamental for sustaining plant life, which forms the base of the food chain. Without decomposers, dead matter would accumulate, and nutrients would become locked away, leading to a depletion of soil fertility over time. This would ultimately disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, affecting all organisms that rely on plants for food.

In contrast, the roles described in the other options do not accurately represent the function of decomposers. For instance, producing energy through photosynthesis is specific to producers, like plants and algae. Competing with plants for sunlight does not apply since decomposers operate primarily in the soil, processing organic material rather than competing for light. Lastly, converting inorganic substances into organic compounds is primarily a function of producers, which use sunlight to create energy-rich organic materials. Overall, the unique function