Question

The process of mineralisation by microorganisms helps in the release of

• A. inorganic nutrients from humus
• B. both organic and inorganic nutrients from detritus
• C. organic nutrients from humus
• D. inorganic nutrients from detritus and formation of humus

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Mineralisation is the release of inorganic substances, both non-mineral [e.g., $C{O}_2,H_{2}O$) and mineral (e.g., $C{a}^{2+},M{g}^{2+},K^{+},N{H}_4^{+}$) from organic matter. The process is slow because of trapping of these nutrients in humus and their immobilisation in decomposers/detritivores. It prevents their washing out or leaching. Nutrients immobilised in decomposer microbes and detritivores are again exposed to humification and mineralisation after the death of these organisms.