Final answer:
Decomposers are essential in an ecosystem as they break down dead organisms and release nutrients back into the environment for other organisms to use.
Step-by-step explanation:
Decomposers play a crucial role in an ecosystem by breaking down dead organisms and animal wastes. They release nutrients, such as carbon and nitrogen, back into the environment, which are then recycled and used by producers. These nutrients are essential for the growth and survival of plants and other organisms in the ecosystem. Without decomposers, the nutrients would not be released, leading to a lack of nutrients for producers and other organisms.