To Recycle Nutrients, an Ecosystem Must Have, at a Minimum

question 32

Multiple Choice

To recycle nutrients, an ecosystem must have, at a minimum,

• A) producers.
• B) producers and decomposers.
• C) producers, primary consumers, and decomposers.
• D) producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and decomposers.
• E) producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, top carnivores, and decomposers.

---

Definitions:

Synthesize Bile

The process of producing bile, a digestive fluid created by the liver, critical for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.

Gastrin

A hormone produced by the stomach that stimulates the secretion of gastric acid, aiding in digestion.

Endocrine Cells

Cells that release hormones directly into the bloodstream, found within endocrine glands like the thyroid or pancreas.

Hydrochloric Acid

A strong acid secreted by the stomach lining that helps in digestion and acts as a barrier to pathogens.