Question

Given below are two statements : one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : Nothing goes waste in forest.
Reason (R) : Decomposers act on dead plant and animals converting them into humus.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is NOT the correct explation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Hint:

Forest Ecosystem Recycling: Dead biomass $\xrightarrow{\text{Decomposers}}$ Humus $\xrightarrow{\text{Mineralization}}$ Plant Nutrients $\rightarrow$ Zero Waste!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question tests ecological understanding of biogeochemical nutrient cycling and decomposer roles in forest ecosystems.

Step 2: Alysis of Assertion (A):

• tural forest ecosystems represent self-sustaining closed ecological systems where organic waste, leaf litter, and dead organic bodies are completely recycled.
• Hence, Assertion (A) is correct.

Step 3: Alysis of Reason (R):

• Decomposers (bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, and soil detritivores) break down complex organic polymers in dead plant leaves, wood, and animal carcasses.
• This biological mineralization and humification process converts waste into nutrient-rich organic humus, which replenishes soil fertility and feeds plant roots.
• Because decomposers continuously convert all organic debris into humus, no waste accumulates in a tural forest.
• Thus, Reason (R) is correct and serves as the direct biological mechanism explaining Assertion (A).

Step 4: Fil Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) is the correct explation of (A). Therefore, option (A) is correct.