1.
decomposer
An organism, typically bacteria or fungi, that breaks down dead organic matter and returns nutrients to the ecosystem.
キノコは分解者の一つだ。
Mushrooms are one type of decomposer.
分解者は生態系で重要な役割を果たす。
Decomposers play an important role in ecosystems.
分解者がいなければ、落ち葉や動物の死骸が分解されない。
Without decomposers, fallen leaves and animal carcasses would not be broken down.
分解者 is a biology term composed of 分解 (decomposition) + 者 (one who does). It refers to organisms that break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
ECOSYSTEM ROLES (commonly taught as a set):
- 生産者: producer (plants — make food via photosynthesis)
- 消費者: consumer (animals — eat other organisms)
- 分解者: decomposer (break down dead matter)
EXAMPLES OF DECOMPOSERS:
- 細菌: bacteria
- 菌類: fungi (including mushrooms and mold)
- ミミズ: earthworms
CONTEXT:
This term appears frequently in 理科 (science) classes and 生態系 (ecosystem) discussions. The three-role classification is a standard part of Japanese science education.