The different steps involved in the process of decomposition of detritus are as follows :
(i) Fragmentation
(ii) Leaching
(iii) Catabolism
(iv) Humification
(v) Mineralization
Fragmentation : Breakdown of detritus into smaller particles. e.g., earthworm.
Leaching : Water soluble inorganic nutrients go down into the soil horizon and get precipitated as unavailable salts.
Catabolism : Bacterial and fungal enzymes degrade detritus into simpler inorganic substances.
Humification : It leads to the accumulation of a dark coloured amorphous substance called humus that is highly resistant to microbial action and undergoes decomposition at an extremely slow rate.
Mineralisation : The humus is further degraded by some microbes and release inorganic substances by this process.
