Biology CLEP Prep Practice Exam 2025 - Free Biology CLEP Practice Questions and Study Guide

Decomposers are the organisms responsible for breaking down biomass from dead plants and animals. They play a crucial role in nutrient recycling within ecosystems by converting organic matter into inorganic nutrients that can be used by other organisms for growth and development. This process is essential for maintaining the balance of energy and nutrients within an ecosystem. The other options mentioned are incorrect because carnivores only consume meat, herbivores only consume plants, and autotrophs produce their own food through photosynthesis. Decomposers are the only organisms that break down dead organic matter.