In an ecosystem, what would happen to dead organic material if there were no decomposers?

• A. It would accumulate and not be broken down.
• B. It would disappear due to abiotic factors.
• C. It would be consumed by herbivores.
• D. It would be converted into energy by producers.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of decomposers in an ecosystem: Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, break down dead organic material into simpler substances, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
2. Consider what happens in the absence of decomposers: Without decomposers, dead organic material would not be broken down into simpler substances.
3. Evaluate the options given: If dead organic material is not broken down, it cannot be consumed by herbivores, as they typically eat living plants. It also cannot be converted into energy by producers, as producers (like plants) use sunlight to create energy through photosynthesis, not dead material.
4. Consider abiotic factors: While abiotic factors like weathering can break down material to some extent, they are not sufficient to fully decompose organic matter as decomposers do.
5. Conclude the outcome: Without decomposers, dead organic material would accumulate in the ecosystem, leading to a buildup of undecomposed matter.