Question

refer to figure 1 and the image above. which of the following statements is true in regard to the role of earthworms in this environment? earthworms play little to no role in this environment. microbe population sizes would be unaffected with or without their presence earthworms are decomposers in this environment. they recycle materials and resources in the soil allowing microbe population sizes to increase. earthworms are prey to the microbes in this environment, thereby allowing the microbes to increase their population sizes.

Explanation:

Earthworms are well - known decomposers. They break down organic matter in the soil, recycling materials and resources. This activity can create a more favorable environment for microbes, potentially increasing their population sizes. They are not prey to microbes and do play an important role in the soil ecosystem.

Answer:

Earthworms are decomposers in this environment. They recycle materials and resources in the soil allowing microbe population sizes to increase.