Final answer:
Bacteria function as decomposers in the environment, breaking down dead organic material into smaller molecules to extract required nutrients and energy, thereby playing a key role in nutrient cycling and soil fertility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bacteria in the body upon decomposition play a crucial role as decomposers. These microorganisms break down dead tissues and organic wastes, such as those found in a decaying body, into smaller molecules. By doing so, they release nutrients and energy that they need to survive, and also return important elements to the environment, thus maintaining the natural cycle of life.
In ecosystems, bacteria as decomposers are essential for recycling nutrients like nitrogen and carbon, which are vital for the survival of living organisms. This decomposition process contributes to the formation of humus, enriching soil fertility and supporting plant growth, which in turn supports other life forms.
Whether in soil or water, bacteria utilize organic substrates to extract their energy, carbon, and nutrients. Their metabolic activities are also beneficial for human purposes, such as in sewage treatment plants where bacteria break down wastes, protecting our health and environment from pollution.