Recycling Matter in Ecosystems

Front

What are decomposers?

Back

Decomposers are organisms, like bacteria and fungi, that break down dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers are organisms, like plants, that make their own food using sunlight through a process called photosynthesis.

Front

What do consumers do in an ecosystem?

Back

Consumers are organisms that eat other organisms to obtain energy.

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A food chain is a sequence that shows how energy and nutrients flow from one organism to another in an ecosystem.

Front

What happens to matter in a food chain?

Back

The total amount of matter stays the same as it flows through the food chain.

Front

What is the role of bacteria in ecosystems?

Back

Bacteria act as decomposers, breaking down waste and dead matter, which helps recycle nutrients.

Front

What do water beetles eat?

Back

Water beetles depend on water lilies for food.

Front

What is the importance of recycling matter in ecosystems?

Back

Recycling matter ensures that nutrients are reused, supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem balance.

Front

What happens to matter broken down by decomposers?

Back

It is recycled back into the ecosystem and can be used by plants to grow.

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.