2. plant nutrients = chemical substances which plants need Examples: nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium apart from carbon dioxide, oxygen and water
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4. decomposition = breaking down dead plants or animals (or parts of them) to release plant nutrients Example: a fallen branch rots away and the nutrients are absorbed by the roots below it.
5. decomposer = an animal which feeds on dead plants or animals (or parts of them) Example: a termite, a millipede or an earthworm
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7. Why are decomposers important ? Most of the plant material in a tropical forest goes into the decomposition food chain