What serves as an energy source for decomposers?

Dead biomass or detritus

The correct answer is c) Dead biomass or detritus.

Dead biomass or detritus serves as an energy source for decomposers. Decomposers are organisms, mainly fungi and bacteria, that specialize in breaking down and decomposing dead organic matter, including dead plant material, animal remains, and other organic waste.

When any organism dies, its remains are converted into detritus or dead biomass. Decomposers play a crucial role in the process of decomposition by breaking down this dead organic matter into simpler inorganic materials. They secrete enzymes that break down complex organic compounds into simpler forms, such as carbon dioxide, water, and inorganic nutrients.

By breaking down dead biomass or detritus, decomposers release the trapped energy stored in the organic matter. They obtain energy and nutrients by degrading the dead organic material and absorbing the resulting simple inorganic materials.

Decomposers are often referred to as saprotrophs or saprophytes, as they obtain their energy and nutrients from decaying organic matter. They play a vital role in nutrient cycling and energy flow within ecosystems by recycling the energy and nutrients stored in dead organisms back into the environment.

In summary, decomposers derive their energy from dead biomass or detritus, breaking down the organic matter and releasing the stored energy. They contribute significantly to the process of decomposition and play a crucial role in nutrient recycling within ecosystems.