2nd Year - Decay

Question 1

What is cycled in an ecosystem?

Answer 1

Materials

Question 2

Why do materials decay?

Answer 2

Because they are broken down (digested) by micro-organisms (bacteria and fungi)

Question 3

What does the decay process release?

Answer 3

The decay process releases minerals which plants need to grow

Question 4

How are the processes which remove materials balanced in a stable community?

Answer 4

In a stable community, the processes which remove materials are balanced by processes which return materials

Question 5

What is needed for decay by micro-organisms?

Answer 5

Moisture, warmth and oxygen are needed for decay by micro-organisms

Question 6

What are detritivores?

Answer 6

They are large organisms which help speed up decay by feeding on detritus (decaying/dead material)

Question 7

How do detritivores help speed up the decay process?

Answer 7

They feed on detritus, which is dead and decaying material. They break it down into smaller pieces, increasing the surface area for the bacteria and fungi.

Question 8

What are the features of a good compost heap?

Answer 8

• buy a decent compost bin
• pick the perfect spot for your compost heap/bin
• let the worms do the hard work