NEETBotanyEcosystem
Identify the correct statement regarding the steps of decomposition and the factors affecting them:
Options
- ACatabolism by bacterial and fungal enzymes is an oxygen-independent process and is favoured by anaerobic condi
- BFragmentation by detritivores proceeds at a much faster rate when the detritus is rich in lignin and chitin.
- CHumification leads to the accumulation of a dark amorphous substance which undergoes decomposition at an extre
- DLeaching increases the availability of water-soluble inorganic nutrients in the topsoil for plant roots during
Correct answer
C. Humification leads to the accumulation of a dark amorphous substance which undergoes decomposition at an extre
Step-by-step solution
Humification leads to the accumulation of humus, a dark-coloured amorphous substance that is highly resistant to microbial action and thus decomposes at an extremely slow rate. This makes the statement about humification correct. The other statements are incorrect because: 1. Decomposition (including catabolism) is largely an oxygen-requiring process; anaerobiosis inhibits decomposition. 2. The rate of decomposition is slower, not faster, when detritus is rich in lignin and chitin. 3. Leaching causes water-soluble