What is the primary function of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Decomposers and scavengers break down dead plants and animals. They also break down the waste (poop) of other organisms. Decomposers are very important for any ecosystem. If they weren't in the ecosystem, the plants would not get essential nutrients, and dead matter and waste would pile up.

They break down dead plants and animals then, put then nutrients back into the Earth. If they weren't in the ecosystem, the plants would not get essential nutrients, and dead matter and waste would pile up.