What Are Some Decomposers in the Temperate Grasslands?
Decomposers found in temperate grasslands include insects, microorganisms and fungi. Small insects called arthropods live within the soil of many biomes, including grasslands. They not only decompose and shred organic material, but they also stimulate the growth of other decomposers such as fungi.
One of the main decomposers found in temperate grasslands are fungi. Mycena aetites is a type of fungi with slender stems and hat-shaped caps. They are commonly found on prairies and decompose grass and leaves.
Mycorrhizae is another fungus found in grasslands. In addition to breaking down nutrients, it also has a symbiotic relationship with plants that help those plants absorb nutrients. This fungus grows among the roots of the plant, protecting it from disease while using it for food. The majority of the plants found in grasslands have this fungus attached to the roots.
Arthropods are decomposers also found in grasslands. The pseudoscorpion is a small scorpion-like arthropod that has claws and produces venom. It is found in the soil of other biomes as well. The rugose harvester ant decomposes dead insects as well as plant material. The springtail arthropod has three sets of legs and a long tail that enables it to jump up to 3 feet. It helps to control fungal diseases, and releases nutrients into the soil.
