What is a decomposer in Long Island Sound?

In Long Island Sound, a decomposer is an organism that breaks down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Common decomposers in this region include bacteria, fungi, and certain scavenging invertebrates like worms and crustaceans. These organisms play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the marine environment by facilitating the decomposition process, which helps sustain the food web. By transforming waste materials into simpler substances, they ensure the availability of essential nutrients for primary producers like phytoplankton and aquatic plants.