A decomposer is an organism that breaks down dead plants, animals, and organic waste into simpler substances, releasing nutrients back into the environment. This process, called decomposition, involves chemically breaking down complex organic matter into simpler molecules through enzymes released externally by the decomposers, which then absorb the nutrients

. Decomposers play a crucial ecological role by recycling nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, making them available for uptake by plants and other producers in the ecosystem. This nutrient recycling supports the food chain and maintains ecosystem balance

. Common types of decomposers include fungi, bacteria, and certain invertebrates like earthworms and insects. Fungi and bacteria are often saprotrophs that digest dead matter externally, while detritivores (a subgroup of decomposers) ingest and digest dead material internally

. In summary, decomposers are essential organisms that clean up dead organic material and recycle nutrients, sustaining life by enabling nutrient flow through ecosystems