What organisms are responsible for decomposing organic matter? why are they essential? a. heterotrophs; they return biotic material to the abiotic component of the earth b. social insects; they carry out fertilization of many crops c. decomposers; they return biotic material to the abiotic component of the earth

Option C - decomposers; they return biotic material to the abiotic component of the Earth

Explanation:

Decomposers are also known as SAPROPHYTES. They feed on and break down dead and decaying remains of plants and animals, thus enabling the release of certain compounds like ammonia, methane gas etc into the environment that then enrich/improve the soil fertility.