The major role of detrivores in ecosystems is to
A) provide a nutritional resource for heterotrophs.
B) recycle chemical nutrients to a form capable of being used by autotrophs.
C) prevent the buildup of the organic remains of organisms, feces, and so on.
D) return energy lost to the ecosystem by other organisms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Detrivores, such as earthworms and bacteria, consume dead organic matter and waste products, which helps to break them down into simpler chemical compounds. This process recycles nutrients back into the ecosystem, making them available for use by autotrophs such as plants.

The Major Role of Detrivores in Ecosystems Is to