Degradation of detritus into simple inorganic substances by the enzymatic action of bacteria and fungi is called

Options

A. Fragmentation
B. Leaching
C. Catabolism
D. Humfication

Answer

To answer the question, "Degradation of detritus into simple inorganic substances by the enzymatic action of bacteria and fungi is called," we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Terms
- **Detritus** refers to dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves, dead animals, and other decomposing material.
- **Enzymatic action** indicates the role of enzymes produced by bacteria and fungi in breaking down complex organic materials.

### Step 2: Analyze the Options
1. **Fragmentation**: This process involves the physical breakdown of detritus into smaller pieces but does not specifically refer to the enzymatic action of bacteria and fungi.

2. **Leaching**: This is the process where water-soluble nutrients are washed away from the soil, not related to the degradation of detritus.

3. **Catabolism**: This term refers to the metabolic process where complex substances are broken down into simpler ones, often by microbial action. This fits the description of the degradation of detritus into simple inorganic substances.

4. **Humification**: This process involves the decomposition of organic matter into humus, which is a stable organic matter in soil, but it does not specifically refer to the breakdown into inorganic substances.

### Step 3: Identify the Correct Answer
Based on the definitions and processes described, the correct answer is **Catabolism**. This process specifically refers to the breakdown of detritus into simpler inorganic substances through the enzymatic action of bacteria and fungi.

### Final Answer
The degradation of detritus into simple inorganic substances by the enzymatic action of bacteria and fungi is called **Catabolism**.

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