Given below are two statements: Statement I : Decomposition is a process in which the detritus is degraded into simpler substances by microbes. Statement II : Decomposition is faster if the detritus is rich in lignin and chitin. In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Step-by-step solution

The decomposers break down complex organic matter into inorganic substances like carbon dioxide, water and nutrients and the process is called decomposition. Dead plant remains such as leaves, bark, flowers and dead remains of animals, including animal faecal matter, constitute detritus, which is the raw material for decomposition. During decomposition, the detritus is digested by the enzymes released by microbes, like bacteria, fungus, etc. Decomposition is faster in humid condition and on cellulosic material.