What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Decomposers play a vital role in an ecosystem primarily by breaking down dead organisms and recycling nutrients. This process is essential for maintaining the health of the environment. When plants and animals die, their bodies contain valuable nutrients stored in organic matter. Decomposers, which include organisms like bacteria, fungi, and certain insects, break down this organic matter into simpler substances.

As they do this, nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon are released back into the soil and atmosphere, making them available for use by producers, such as plants. This recycling of nutrients helps sustain the productivity of ecosystems, ensuring that life can continue to thrive. Without decomposers, ecosystems would accumulate dead organic matter, nutrient cycles would be disrupted, and life could not be sustained effectively.

The other choices do not accurately represent the role of decomposers. Competing with producers for light is characteristic of different organisms, while preventing soil erosion and increasing photosynthesis rates are roles more associated with plants and the physical processes in ecosystems rather than decomposers.