Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow:-

The earthworm is often referred to as the farmer's 'friend' due to its beneficial role in the breakdown of complex organic matter and soil aeration. Similarly, decomposers play a crucial role in converting complex organic matter into inorganic substances like carbon dioxide, water, and nutrients through the process of decomposition. Detritus, consisting of dead plant remains (leaves, bark, flowers) and animal waste, serves as the raw material for decomposition. Decomposition involves several important steps: fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification, and mineralization.

Bacterial and fungal enzymes degrade detritus into simpler inorganic substances. What is this process known as?

Catabolism

The correct answer is Option (1) -Catabolism

Detritus refers to dead organic material, such as fallen leaves, plant debris, and other organic matter. This detritus undergoes decomposition, a natural process driven by decomposers like bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms produce enzymes that act as biological catalysts, facilitating the breakdown of complex molecules.

Detritivores (e.g., earthworm) break down detritus into smaller particles. This process is called fragmentation. By the process of leaching, water-soluble inorganic nutrients go down into the soil horizon and get precipitated as unavailable salts. Bacterial and fungal enzymes degrade detritus into simpler inorganic substances. This process is called as catabolism.

In summary, catabolism, facilitated by microbial enzymes, is a vital component of the natural recycling process. It transforms complex detritus into simpler compounds, contributing to nutrient cycling in ecosystems.