Bacteria in soil feed on _.
a. organic matter
b. nematodes
c. protozoa
d. fungi
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is a. organic matter.
Explanation:
Bacteria in soil play a crucial role in the decomposition process and the recycling of nutrients. These microorganisms primarily feed on organic matter, which includes the remains of plants, animals, and other microorganisms. Organic matter is rich in carbon and nitrogen, and bacteria break down these complex compounds into simpler substances that can be absorbed by plants, thereby supporting soil fertility.
Soil bacteria decompose dead plant material, animal remains, and other organic debris into simpler forms such as carbon dioxide, water, and essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. This decomposition process is essential for maintaining soil health because it recycles nutrients, making them available for new plant growth. The organic matter that bacteria feed on includes dead roots, leaves, animal waste, and other decomposed organisms.
While some other options in the question, such as nematodes, protozoa, and fungi, interact with bacteria in the soil, they do not serve as primary food sources for bacteria. Instead, these organisms may be involved in symbiotic or predatory relationships with bacteria. For example, fungi break down organic matter, but their role is complementary to that of bacteria. Nematodes are tiny roundworms that often feed on soil bacteria, and protozoa are single-celled organisms that can consume bacteria, but they do not directly supply food for bacteria.
Therefore, the primary food source for soil bacteria is organic matter, which provides the energy and nutrients needed for their survival, growth, and reproduction. This relationship is vital for nutrient cycling and soil ecosystem stability, directly supporting plant life and overall soil health.