Microorganisms in plant decomposition

Steps:

• Decomposition breaks down dead organic matter into nutrients using microbes.
• Fungi secrete enzymes like cellulase and ligninase to degrade complex plant polymers.
• Bacteria primarily handle simpler animal remains or soil nutrients, not lignified plants.
• Viruses infect hosts but do not decompose organic matter.

Why B is correct:

• Fungi are primary decomposers of dead plant material, as defined in ecosystem biology, due to their ability to break down lignin and cellulose that bacteria cannot efficiently process.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Includes bacteria and viruses, but bacteria are secondary and viruses do not decompose.
• C: Includes viruses, which play no role in decomposition.
• D: Excludes fungi, the main decomposers of plant material.

Final answer: B