The substances recycled in the soil by the activities of micro-organisms during the decay of dead organisms are first utilized by the

The substances recycled in the soil by the activities of micro-organisms during the decay of dead organisms are first utilized by the autotrophs. Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food through the process of photosynthesis. They use the nutrients and other substances released during the decay of dead organisms to synthesize organic molecules like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These organic molecules are used as food by other organisms such as herbivores, carnivores, and scavengers in the food chain. Therefore, autotrophs play a crucial role in the cycling of nutrients in the ecosystem.