# Describe the role of decomposers in the cycling of materials in an ecosystem.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 6.2 The principle of material cycling · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Decomposers break down dead organisms / waste material
2. Decomposers release nutrients / minerals back into the soil / environment
3. These nutrients / minerals can then be taken up / absorbed by plants
4. This allows materials to be reused / recycled, so the same atoms / molecules pass through living organisms again

## Key terms

- [decomposers](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/decomposers)
- [cycling of materials](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/cycling-of-materials)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-role-of-decomposers-in-1d6b6fff) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.