# Describe the roles of producers and decomposers in an ecosystem.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.6.1 Ecosystems · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Producers (e.g. plants/algae) absorb light energy / carry out photosynthesis
2. Producers make organic molecules / food that provides energy/nutrients for other organisms in the ecosystem
3. Decomposers break down dead organic material / the remains of dead organisms
4. Decomposers release mineral ions / nutrients back into the soil / environment for producers to reuse

## Key terms

- [producers](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/producers)
- [decomposers](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/decomposers)
- [ecosystem](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ecosystem)

## 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)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-roles-of-producers-and-192d725e) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.