Which of the following describes how matter moves between producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem

A) One-way flow from producers to consumers to decomposers

B) One-way flow from decomposers to consumers to producers

C) Cyclic flow from producers to consumers to decomposers and back to producers*******

D) Cyclic Flow from decomposers to consumers to producers and back to decomposers.

I agree.

The correct answer is C) Cyclic flow from producers to consumers to decomposers and back to producers.

To understand how matter moves between producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem, we need to consider the concept of energy flow and nutrient cycling.

Producers, such as plants, algae, and some bacteria, are able to convert sunlight into chemical energy through a process called photosynthesis. They use this energy to produce organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, which serve as a source of energy for themselves and other organisms.

Consumers are organisms that consume producers or other consumers for energy and nutrients. They include herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores. When consumers consume producers, they obtain the energy and nutrients stored in their tissues.

Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, break down dead organisms and waste materials, releasing nutrients back into the environment. These nutrients can then be absorbed by producers, starting the cycle again.

Therefore, matter flows cyclically in an ecosystem, moving from producers to consumers and, eventually, to decomposers. Decomposers break down the remains and waste materials, returning the nutrients back to the producers, completing the cycle.

In summary, the correct answer is C) Cyclic flow from producers to consumers to decomposers and back to producers.