Anaerobic Decomposition and Decay Flashcards

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What is anaerobic decomposition (or decay)?

It is the breakdown of dead material by microorganisms when there is no oxygen.

How is anaerobic decomposition different from aerobic decomposition?

Anaerobic decomposition happens without oxygen, but aerobic decomposition needs oxygen.

What type of organisms carry out anaerobic decomposition?

Decomposer microorganisms, such as bacteria, that can live and work without oxygen.

In what conditions is anaerobic decomposition most likely to happen?

It happens in waterlogged, deep, or tightly packed places where air cannot get in.

Is anaerobic decomposition usually faster or slower than aerobic decomposition, and why?

It is slower because the microorganisms release less energy when there is no oxygen.

Name two gases often produced during anaerobic decomposition of dead plants and animals.

Methane and carbon dioxide are often released during anaerobic decay.

Why does anaerobic decay often cause bad smells?

It produces smelly gases and chemicals as microorganisms break down the material.

How does anaerobic decomposition affect the return of nutrients to the soil?

It releases nutrients more slowly, so mineral ions return to the soil more slowly.

Give one natural habitat where anaerobic decomposition often occurs.

It often happens in waterlogged soils, marshes, peat bogs, or at the bottom of ponds.

Why can dead plants build up in peat bogs instead of fully decaying?

The waterlogged, low-oxygen, often acidic conditions slow anaerobic decay, so material builds up.

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