Chapter 31, Problem S1.1BYB

Summary Introduction

To write:

The roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem.

Introduction:

Ecosystem comprises of biotic factors of a community of thriving species associating with each other, which can be observed in the food webs/chains. These diverse species stay in connection due to the requirement of the food. The population is considered as a gathering of same species. This population performs an essential function in sustaining the equilibrium in the ecosystem. The functions played by the population in this feeding association are categorized into the three prime biotic constituents of an ecosystem. These are producers, consumers, and decomposers.

Explanation of Solution

The producers are any kind of algae or green plant having the tendency of producing their own food, also known autotrophs; Plants make their own food by the procedure of photosynthesis and also manufacture food for other consumers. In the absence of producers, an ecosystem cannot withstand itself.

A consumer refers to a species, also known as heterotrophs, are accountable for making sure that the energy cycle by producers is spontaneous. The consumer is also supposed to use the food, which has been offered by the producers so that it is availed to decomposers. The consumers can be carnivores, herbivores, or omnivores.

The decomposers, for example, bacteria and fungi, have the function to dissociate or decompose dead matter in the surroundings. In the absence of decomposers, there would be waste everywhere. The decomposers are very vital to the environment.

Conclusion

There are three prime groups to consider when observing at the circle of life in an ecosystem. These are producers, consumers, and decomposers. These categories are based on how the species acquire food. The producers, consumers, and decomposers all are associated in the food webs and food chains and are reliant on each other for existence.