What is the role of each of the following in the carbon cycle? primary procedures secondary procedures decomposers

2)Secondary CONSUMERs (typo): rabbits – eat primary producers

3)Decomposers: microorganism – break down dead producers/consumers and release organic matter back into the soil for producers to use

Answer and Explanation:

a. Primary producers

Primary producers are organisms that are able to produce their own food, also known as autotrophs. The best example to illustrate this group are plants. They have a major role in the carbon cycle as they transform inorganic molecules from the atmosphere, such as CO2, into organic molecules like carbohydrates.

b. Secondary producers

Secondary producers are organisms that feed on primary producers, that is, they are heterotrophs (and herbivores), which are then consumed by predators. For example, caterpillars or rabbits. When these organisms respirate, they exhale carbon dioxide, which is used by primary producers in the carbon cycle.

c. Decomposers

Decomposers are organisms that consume and break down organic matter such as dead animals, feces, and leaves. For example, fungi and bacteria. Through this process, they release CO2 and methane into the atmosphere, making carbon dioxide available for plants to carry out photosynthesis.