Decomposition (biology only)
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What decomposition is

What decomposition is

Flow diagram of decomposition showing dead plants, dead animals and waste being broken down by decomposers, with temperature, water and oxygen affecting rate and outputs of carbon dioxide, heat and mineral ions

Decomposition, also called decay, is the breakdown of dead biological material and waste by living organisms, especially microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Without decomposition, useful substances would stay locked in dead bodies and waste instead of being recycled through the ecosystem.

Decomposition (biology only) Lesson

  1. GCSE
  2. /Biology
  3. /Decomposition (biology only)