... decomposers. A dead organism holds valuable nutrients, all of which remains intact without the activity of putrefying bacteria (decomposers). Decomposers are saprophytic organisms whish exploit the energy source and break down the organic compound of which the dead organism constitutes. Valuable nutrients like carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous are released which then may be recycled. Alongside dead organisms, decomposers also decompose organic chemicals in urine, faeces and other wastes. Most decomposers are bacteria or fungi, which live on decaying organic matter. They absorb soluble molecules such as amino acids, organic acids and mineral salts. Insoluble materials such as starch, cellulose, fats and resins are broken down first. Decomposers digest complex molecules by secreting digestive enzymes onto their food surface, digesting it externally and then absorbing the broken down products. The process results in the formation of ammonia in the soil. This is the point were nitrogen enters the biological cycle. These ammonium ...

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