Decomposers
Decomposers break down dead plant and animal matter by secreting enzymes. The matter is broken down into small food molecules which move into the microorganism by diffusion.
Factors
Factors affecting rate of decomposition include:
- Temperature
- Water: microorganisms grow faster in conditions with water
- Oxygen levels, most decomposers respire aerobically.
Compost
Compost is produced when biological material decays. Used by gardeners as a natural fertiliser - they have to provide optimum conditions for decay.
Methane Gas
Microorganisms decompose waste anaerobically to produce methane gas which can be burnt as fuel.
Biogas generators can be used to produce methane.
- Require a constant
C to keep respiration. - Cant be stored as liquid so needs to be used immediately.