Bacteria and fungi that break down organic matter are categorized as

• A. Detritivores
• B. Scavengers
• C. Decomposers
• D. Carrion

Answer: (C)

Nutrient recycling through chemical breakdown by microorganisms is the job of decomposers. Bacteria and fungi break down complex organic molecules—like proteins, carbohydrates, and lignin—by secreting enzymes that split them into smaller, absorbable forms. This process releases nutrients back into the environment, making them available for plants and other organisms and driving the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle. Detritivores, on the other hand, ingest detritus and digest it internally, while scavengers feed on carcasses without performing the microbial breakdown that releases nutrients on a larger scale. Carrion simply refers to dead animal matter, not a functional group. So bacteria and fungi that break down organic matter fit the category of decomposers.