Question

The ________ are the organisms that break down dead organisms into smaller parts. They are important for converting the carbon, and other elements, that are fixed in organic material back into their inorganic forms.

Answer 1

Answer: DECOMPOSERS

Explanation;

These are heterotrophs that obtain their energy and necessary metabolites from organic substrates. By breaking down dead organic matter Examples ( bacteria and fungi)

They carry out extracellular digestion by secreting digestive enzymes on the organic matter and absorbs the nutrient directly without ingesting it. With this feeding process they are different from detritivore which must ingest and digest the dead matter to obtain the necessary nutrients.(examples-earthworms, woodlice)