Question

if decomposers were removed entirely from an ecosystem, which of the following would be affected the most?
a availability of water
b rate of photosynthesis
c availability of oxygen
d recycling of nutrients

Explanation:

Decomposers play a crucial role in breaking down dead organic matter. This process releases nutrients (such as nitrogen, phosphorus) back into the soil. These nutrients are then taken up by plants for growth. Without decomposers, the recycling of nutrients would be severely disrupted. Water availability is mainly related to the water cycle (evaporation, precipitation etc.), photosynthesis rate is more about light, carbon - dioxide and chlorophyll, and oxygen availability is related to photosynthesis (production) and respiration (consumption).

Answer:

d. recycling of nutrients