Which one of the following processes during decomposition i…

Biology Ecosystem Previous Year Questions Single Correct MCQ

Published on: August 12, 2026

Which one of the following processes during decomposition is correctly described?

Fragmentation – Carried out by organisms such as earthworm.

Humification – Leads to the accumulation of a dark coloured substance humus which undergoes microbial action at a very fast rate.

Catabolism – Last step in the decomposition under fully anaerobic condition.

Leaching – Water soluble inorganic nutrients rise to the top layers of soil.

Text Solution

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The correct answer is:

During decomposition, fragmentation is the process in which detritus is broken into smaller pieces by organisms like earthworms and other detritivores, increasing surface area for microbial action.

Other options are incorrect because:

Humus is resistant to microbial decomposition (not fast).

Catabolism is not the last step; mineralization is.

Leaching moves nutrients downward, not upward.

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