# Explain why removing all the decomposers from a woodland ecosystem would eventually cause the plants in that woodland to stop growing, even if rainfall and light levels remained unchanged.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.6.2 Nutrient cycles · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Decomposers break down dead organic matter / dead organisms / leaf litter
2. Decomposition releases (mineral) nutrients / ions into the soil
3. Without decomposers, nutrients / minerals become locked up in dead matter and are not returned to the soil
4. Plants cannot absorb sufficient minerals / nutrients (e.g. nitrates / phosphates) needed for growth

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" 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/explain-why-removing-all-the-decomposers-ff74e65d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.