Question

Identify and explain three ecologically essential roles that bacteria play on Earth.

Answer 1

Bacteria play three essential roles in the ecosystem: decomposers, aiding in animal digestion, and providing ecosystem services.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bacteria play three ecologically essential roles on Earth:

1. Decomposers: Bacteria break down dead materials and waste products, recycling nutrients back into the environment. They are important for the carbon and nitrogen cycles, which are essential for living organisms.
2. Animal Digestion: Billions of bacteria inside the human intestines help in digesting food, making vitamins, and performing other important roles in animal digestion.
3. Ecosystem Services: Bacteria provide vital ecosystem services. They are important for nutrient cycling, such as the carbon and nitrogen cycles, and are crucial for maintaining the health of ecosystems.