9 Questions
Which type of microorganism dominates on larger detrital particles?
Fungi
What is a key advantage of bacterial morphology compared to fungi for nutrient acquisition?
Efficient in nutrient acquisition
What does a lower Net Growth Efficiency (NGE) of microorganisms indicate?
Loss of detrital carbon as CO2
Which macroinvertebrates play a crucial role in fragmenting large litter particles?
Earthworms
What is the primary role of microbes in the decomposition of plant organic matter (POM)?
To release extracellular enzymes that enhance the digestibility of POM
What potential negative impact of microbial activity on detrital resources is mentioned in the text?
Microbes can deplete detrital resources through respiration
How can microbial metabolism influence the availability of organic matter to consumers?
It can either increase or decrease the availability, depending on the pathways of mass loss
Which of the following factors is NOT mentioned in the text as influencing the availability of detrital organic matter to consumers?
The competition between microbes and macroinvertebrates for food resources
Based on the text, which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the broader implications of microbial activity in POM decay?
Microbial activity influences ecosystem functioning and food web dynamics through its effects on POM decay
Learn about how microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi play a key role in the decay of organic matter, contributing to the conversion of carbon to CO2. Understand the differences in abundance and dominance between bacteria and fungi based on particle size.
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