The decomposition of organic matter involves the breakdown of complex organic compounds into simpler forms, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), water, and various nutrients. During this process, the carbon present in organic matter can be released as carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing to the carbon cycle.

1. Addition of Carbon Dioxide (CO2):Decomposition of organic matter typically results in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Microorganisms, primarily bacteria and fungi, play a crucial role in decomposing organic matter. These microorganisms secrete enzymes that break down the complex organic compounds into simpler molecules. As a result, some of the carbon in organic matter combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide (CO2), which is then released into the surrounding environment.

The overall reaction for the decomposition of organic matter can be represented as follows:

Organic matter + O2 → CO2 + H2O + Nutrients

In this reaction, oxygen (O2) is required for the decomposition to proceed, making it an aerobic process. When organic matter decomposes in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic conditions), other byproducts such as methane (CH4) can be produced instead of carbon dioxide.

2. Responsible for Decomposition of Organic Matter:As mentioned earlier, microorganisms are primarily responsible for the decomposition of organic matter. Bacteria and fungi are the two main groups of decomposers involved in this process.

• Bacteria: Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that are widely distributed in soils, sediments, and aquatic environments. They are highly efficient decomposers and can break down a wide range of organic materials.
• Fungi: Fungi are another important group of decomposers that play a significant role in breaking down complex organic compounds. They secrete enzymes that help in the breakdown of tough and hard-to-degrade substances like lignin, a complex polymer found in plant cell walls.

These decomposers, along with other detritivores (such as earthworms and insects), work together to break down organic matter, facilitating nutrient recycling and the return of carbon to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. This decomposition process is fundamental to the cycling of carbon and nutrients in ecosystems, playing a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth.

Dr Gaurav H Tandon thank you for your contribution to the discussion

Plants and the soil then release carbon dioxide when they decay. Other organisms also release carbon dioxide as they live and die. As animals exhale carbon dioxide when they breathe and release carbon dioxide when they decompose. In the decomposition process, different products are released: carbon dioxide (CO2), energy, water, plant nutrients and resynthesized organic carbon compounds. Successive decomposition of dead material and modified organic matter results in the formation of a more complex organic matter as humus. When the plants die, soil microbes break down their carbon compounds and use them for metabolism and growth, respiring some back to the atmosphere. Because microbial decomposition releases carbon dioxide, the soil can store more carbon when it is protected from microbial activity. Rates of organic matter decomposition, which are reflected in the forest humus type classification, are related to forest productivity. During the process of decomposition, carbon bound in the forest floor is converted to carbon dioxide. Not only does compost reduce GHGs, but it also removes additional emissions from the atmosphere. By promoting healthier and more vital plant growth, compost is a key mechanism for plants to take in carbon dioxide and convert it into leafy growth. Decomposition is the process of breakdown of the complex organic matter into a simpler inorganic matter like carbon dioxide, water, and nutrients. The fungi, bacteria, and flagellates initiate the process of decomposition and are known as decomposers. Its decomposition as mineralization, provides beneficial nutrients for plant health and ecosystem vitality. However, decomposition also releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, potentially contributing to climate change.