HomeVocabularyScienceGrades 3–4 › Decomposer
Science · Grades 3–4

Decomposer

noun

An organism that breaks down dead organic material, returning nutrients to the ecosystem.

Example Sentences

"Mushrooms and bacteria are decomposers that recycle nutrients in forests."

"Without decomposers, dead leaves and animals would never break down."

Synonyms & Related Terms

recyclerbacteria

Quick Check

Which best describes the meaning of decomposer?

Study Tips

To remember decomposer, try writing it in a sentence of your own. Connect it to something you already know about science.

Use it in conversation today — saying a word aloud three times helps lock it into long-term memory.