Breakdown of dead organic matter by detritivores + saprotrophs (fungi, bacteria). Returns elements to biogeochemical pools. Rates vary 100× with climate (Q10 ≈ 2, moisture-dependent).
Breakdown of dead organic matter by detritivores + saprotrophs (fungi, bacteria). Returns elements to biogeochemical pools. Rates vary 100× with climate (Q10 ≈ 2, moisture-dependent).