Question

Saprophytes are fungi that feed on dead and decomposing organisms. They secrete enzymes that digest components of cell walls, such as cellulose and lignin.

Which statement explains why these fungi are an important part of the biogeochemical cycle?
A) Saprophytes perform gas exchange that assists the cellular activities of autotrophs.
B) Saprophytes extract minerals from living tissue to recycle them back into the soil.
C) Saprophytes transport nutrients through the xylem and phloem in autotrophs.
D) Saprophytes return organic material to the soil for use by living organisms.

Answer 1

Contractile

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

The most appropriate answer option is: D) Saprophytes return organic material to the soil for use by living organisms.

Step-by-step explanation:

A saprophyte, also known as a saprobe or saprotroph, is an organism (fungi) which feeds and grows on decomposing organisms. We also know that it secrete enzymes that digest components of cell walls, such as cellulose and lignin.

Saprophyte is an important part of the biogeochemical cycle as it decomposes the bodies of the dead organisms, recycles them and releases nutrients into the soil to be used by the living organisms.