Why are microbes important in the carbon cycle and the nitrogen cycle?

1 Answer
Apr 10, 2018

They decompose dead plants and animals, releasing carbon dioxide. They also turn ammonia into nitrites.

Explanation:

Carbon Cycle
Microbes and fungi decompose dead animals, plants and matter. When they do so, they release carbon dioxide into the air due to respiration and contribute to the carbon cycle.

Nitrogen Cycle
In the soil and ocean there are certain microbes that have the ability to convert ammonia into nitrites. This contributes to the nitrogen cycle.