Courses : Forest Ecology Lecturer :Frischa Adellia Semester : 4thSemester, 2022/2023 Session Definition of Decomposer Decomposers are organisms that play a role in breaking down or decomposing dead organic material or the remains of non-living organisms into simple organic materials, such as nutrients. This decomposition process is important in converting non-living organic matter into a form that can be reused by other organisms in the ecosystem. Decomposer organisms consist of various types, including bacteria, fungi (for example, molds), and several types of insects. They use enzymes to break down complex molecules of organic material, such as cellulose and lignin, into simpler compounds, such as carbon dioxide, water, and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The role of decomposers in the ecosystem is very important. Without decomposers, dead organic matter would accumulate in the environment and take up space that should be used by living organisms. The decomposition process also allows for sustainable nutrient cycling within the ecosystem, because the nutrients released by decomposition can be reabsorbed by plants and other organisms. Thus, decomposers act as "starters" in the nutrient cycle in the ecosystem, ensuring that dead organic material is converted back into a form that can be reused by other organisms. This is an important contribution to the decomposition of organic matter, maintaining ecosystem balance, and supporting environmental sustainability. Decomposers also help control the population of organisms in an ecosystem by recycling dead organic matter. This decomposition process also helps reduce the potential for the buildup of undecomposed organic matter, which in turn can disrupt ecosystem function. Apart from that, decomposer organisms also have an important role in maintaining soil quality. Their decomposition process rejuvenates and enriches the soil with nutrients essential for plant growth. They also improve soil structure and water availability, thereby increasing the fertility and productivity of agricultural land. In polluted environments, decomposers can also act as bioremediation agents by breaking down organic pollutants and converting them into safer or non-toxic forms. This helps rid the environment of harmful substances and restore the health of compromised ecosystems. Overall, decomposers are important components in ecosystems because they help maintain nutrient balance, control organism populations, improve soil quality, and contribute to bioremediation processes in the environment. Their role is vital in supporting the sustainability and balance of ecosystems throughout the world.