Investigate Decomposers and Their Habitat
Decomposition stations in your outdoor classroom allow you to observe decomposition over a long period of time and learn how various natural cycles such as the carbon and nitrogen cycles function in nature.
By maintaining a rotting log learning station, compost bin/ pile, or vermicomposting bin, you will learn about a vast array of decomposers (bacteria, fungi, arthropods and worms) as well as organisms that feed on the decomposers (salamanders, arthropods and worms).
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Decomposers | Roles of Decomposers | Habitat Types | Other Species |
Follow these rules when composting: |
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Safe to add: | Do not add: |
Dreamstime
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– Diseased plants
– Fat
– Fruit pulp
– Magazines
– Meat
– Milk
– Oil
– Perennial weeds
– Plastic
– Weeds with seed heads
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Other species in the Habitat | |
There are many microscopic organisms, like bacteria, that you cannot see with your naked eye in your log decomposition station.
There are also larger organisms like fungus (mold and mustrooms) and invertebrates (beetles, snails, millipedes, worms, pillbugs, and others). You may also find organisms that feed on decomposers such as salamanders and spiders. |
Slimy Salamander
Wikimdeia – Greg Schechter Click on image to enlarge it |
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Khan Academy (1)
Khan Academy (2) |
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