What role do decomposers play in the carbon cycle?

Decomposers play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by converting carbon compounds found in dead organic matter into carbon dioxide. When decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, break down this organic matter, they facilitate the release of carbon that was previously stored in living organisms back into the atmosphere. This process not only helps to recycle nutrients and maintain the flow of energy within an ecosystem, but it also ensures that carbon dioxide, a vital greenhouse gas, is available for photosynthetic organisms, such as plants, to use in producing oxygen and organic material.

This role of decomposers is essential for sustaining ecosystems and maintaining the balance of carbon in the environment, illustrating why their function is a key component of the carbon cycle.