Role of Decomposers and Predation in an Ecosystem

a) Decomposers - Recycling of nutrients
b) Predation - Regulation of numbers / population

Explanation

Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler inorganic substances. They include bacteria, fungi, and certain invertebrates like earthworms. Predation refers to the act of one organism (the predator) consuming another organism (the prey).

1. Decomposers break down organic matter into nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other essential elements. These nutrients are released back into the soil and made available for uptake by plants, completing the nutrient cycle.

2. Predators control prey populations by reducing their numbers. This helps prevent overpopulation of certain species, which, if left unchecked, could lead to detrimental impacts on the ecosystem, such as resource depletion and habitat destruction.