1. Decomposition is the process carried out by the decomposer organisms.
2. Most of the bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi are decomposers. They convert the dead and decaying organic matter into simpler compounds. These simpler inorganic substances return back to the environment.
3. Decomposition takes place through detritus food chain. It starts from the dead organic matter. Detritus eating organisms called detritivores like earthworm, etc. breakdown the detritus into smaller fragments. Therefore, this first step of decomposition is called fragmentation.
4. Water soluble inorganic nutrients seep into the soil after fragmentation. These nutrients get precipitated as salts. Therefore, this second step of decomposition is called leaching.
5. The third step of decomposition is called catabolism. In this step, fungal and bacterial enzymes degrade the detritus into simple inorganic substances.
6. The partially decomposed organic matter is called humus which is formed by the process of humification. Humus is a dark coloured amorphous substance which is the reservoir of nutrients.
7. Humus too undergoes decomposition by bacterial action at a very slow rate and ultimately releases inorganic matter. This process is therefore called mineralization.
8. Decomposition requires oxygen in greater amount. The rate of decomposition is dependent upon the temperature and the humidity of the environment.
