Question

How does the presence of water-soluble substances like simple sugars and proteins affect decomposition?

Options

• They form stable humus that resists decomposition

• They increase the leaching of nutrients through the soil

• They inhibit bacterial and fungal enzyme activity

• They are readily utilised and easily broken down by decomposers, accelerating decomposition

Answer 1

Water-soluble substances such as simple sugars and proteins are easily accessible and readily metabolised by bacteria and fungi. Decomposers preferentially consume these components first, as they require less enzymatic complexity to break down compared to structural compounds like lignin. Therefore, detritus rich in water-soluble substances decomposes quickly.