Bacterial and fungal enzymes degrade detritus into simpler inorganic substances. This process is called as ______.

catabolism

The correct answer is Option (1)- catabolism

The process where bacterial and fungal enzymes degrade detritus into simpler inorganic substances is called  catabolism.

Here's a breakdown of the terms involved:

• Detritus: Dead organic matter from plants and animals.
• Enzymes: Proteins produced by bacteria and fungi that act as biological catalysts to break down complex molecules.
• Catabolism: The breakdown of complex organic molecules into simpler ones to release energy.

During decomposition, various processes work together. Fragmentation breaks down detritus into smaller pieces, while leaching dissolves some soluble organic compounds. Catabolism is the key step where bacteria and fungi use their enzymes to break down these complex organic molecules into simpler inorganic substances, such as minerals and nutrients, that can be reused by plants and other organisms in the ecosystem.