An organism that breaks down dead organisms

• A. Food chain
• B. Producer
• C. Decomposer
• D. Energy pyramid

Answer: (C)

Decomposition and nutrient recycling in ecosystems is being tested. An organism that breaks down dead organisms is a decomposer. Decomposers—such as fungi and bacteria—release enzymes to digest dead material outside their cells and then absorb the resulting nutrients. This recycling of organic matter returns essential elements like carbon and nitrogen to the soil or water, making them available for producers to reuse in new growth. Producers are the organisms that capture energy and build organic matter, typically through photosynthesis. Energy pyramids illustrate how energy moves from producers up through consumers, based on trophic levels, rather than describing who breaks down dead material. So the best fit for the description is decomposer.