(A) Each trophic level, a certain mass of living material at a particular time and as …….P……….
(B)Breakdown of detritus into smaller particles , this process is called ………Q……….
Fill in the blanks with suitable word.

Options

A. `{:(P,Q),("Decomposition","Mineralization"):}`
B. `{:(P,Q),("Production","Humification"):}`
C. `{:(P,Q),("Standing","Fragmentation"):}`
D. `{:(P,Q),("Standing","Stratification"):}`

Answer

To solve the question, we need to fill in the blanks with suitable words based on the concepts of trophic levels and decomposition in an ecosystem.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Trophic Levels**:
- Trophic levels refer to the position of organisms in a food chain. Each level represents a different stage in the flow of energy and nutrients.
- At each trophic level, there is a certain mass of living material present at a particular time.

2. **Identifying the First Blank (P)**:
- The mass of living material at a particular time in an ecosystem is known as the **standing crop**.
- Therefore, for blank (P), the suitable word is **standing crop**.

3. **Understanding Decomposition**:
- Decomposition is the process through which dead organic matter (detritus) is broken down into simpler substances.
- This process involves several steps, one of which is the breakdown of detritus into smaller particles.

4. **Identifying the Second Blank (Q)**:
- The breakdown of detritus into smaller particles is specifically referred to as **fragmentation**.
- Thus, for blank (Q), the suitable word is **fragmentation**.

### Final Answers:
- (A) Each trophic level, a certain mass of living material at a particular time is known as **standing crop**.
- (B) Breakdown of detritus into smaller particles, this process is called **fragmentation**.