Nature’s RecyclersThe Study of Decomposers’ Cells

DecomposersWorms, bacteria, and fungiWhat role do they play in an

ecosystem?

DecomposersOrganisms that eat dead

organisms

Consume dead organisms and waste material

DecomposersImportant to ecosystems

because of their ability to recycle important nutrients like carbon and nitrogen

DecomposersBreak down dead material

that can be absorbed by plants

NematodesTiny worms more commonly

known as round wormsSmall or microscopic

NematodesContain a digestive system,

mouth, pharyns, intestine, rectum and anus

Word SortsAlgaePlantsProducersPhytoplanktoncrayfish

Word SortsZooplanktonAlgaeHumansConsumersBass

Word SortsZebra MusselCarbon DioxidePhotosynthesisWaterSunlight

Focus QuestionWhat is the role of nematodes

or decomposers in an ecosystem?

HypothesisThe role of the nematode or

decomposer in an ecosystem is to _________________________.

ExperimentSet up Nematode ExtractorWait 24 hoursLook at slides under

microscopeRecord observations