Describe how decomposers contribute to nutrient availability in soil and how this affects plant growth.

• A. Decomposers break down dead matter, releasing nutrients for plant uptake, sustaining growth and fertility.
• B. Decomposers immobilize nutrients permanently.
• C. Decomposers only affect carbon and not nutrients.
• D. Decomposition happens only after plants die.

Answer: (A)

Decomposers recycle nutrients by breaking down dead plant and animal matter, releasing minerals into forms that plants can take up through their roots. This mineralization replenishes essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which supports new plant growth and helps maintain soil fertility. While microbes can temporarily hold onto nutrients during growth (immobilization), this isn’t permanent; as decomposition continues, those nutrients are released back into the soil for plant uptake. The other statements don’t fit because nutrient availability isn’t permanently immobilized, decomposers affect more than just carbon by releasing multiple nutrients, and decomposition happens continuously—not only after plants die.