Which of the following best describes the difference between detritivores and decomposers, and provides a correct example of each?

• A. Detritivores physically break down dead organic matter (e.g., earthworms), while decomposers chemically break it down (e.g., fungi).
• B. Detritivores and decomposers are both primary producers, with detritivores being fungi and decomposers being earthworms.
• C. Detritivores are always microscopic (e.g., bacteria), while decomposers are always large animals (e.g., vultures).
• D. Detritivores produce their own food through photosynthesis (e.g., plants), while decomposers consume only living organisms (e.g., lions).

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of detritivores and decomposers. Detritivores are organisms that physically break down dead organic matter into smaller pieces, aiding in decomposition. Examples include earthworms and millipedes. Decomposers, on the other hand, chemically break down dead organic matter into simpler substances, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Examples include fungi and bacteria.
2. Step 2: Analyze the first option provided: 'Detritivores physically break down dead organic matter (e.g., earthworms), while decomposers chemically break it down (e.g., fungi).' This aligns with the definitions of detritivores and decomposers and provides correct examples.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the second option: 'Detritivores and decomposers are both primary producers, with detritivores being fungi and decomposers being earthworms.' This is incorrect because neither detritivores nor decomposers are primary producers. Primary producers are organisms like plants and algae that produce their own food through photosynthesis.
4. Step 4: Assess the third option: 'Detritivores are always microscopic (e.g., bacteria), while decomposers are always large animals (e.g., vultures).' This is incorrect because detritivores are not always microscopic; earthworms are a clear example of macroscopic detritivores. Additionally, decomposers are not large animals; fungi and bacteria are decomposers.
5. Step 5: Review the fourth option: 'Detritivores produce their own food through photosynthesis (e.g., plants), while decomposers consume only living organisms (e.g., lions).' This is incorrect because detritivores do not produce their own food; they consume dead organic matter. Decomposers also do not consume living organisms; they break down dead organic matter chemically.