Mushrooms growing out of the base of a dead tree
Mushrooms/Decomposers
Grades 6-8
Mushrooms can be found growing out of the ground in soil or even on trees in many grassy areas and forests. Certain mushrooms are considered a delicacy and can be used as ingredients in a variety of culinary dishes. However, live mushrooms play a major role in helping the ecosystem. We will explore that role and the importance of mushrooms in this lesson.
Teacher's Guide and Related Standards
Students will be able to explain the importance of mushrooms and other decomposers in the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems.
- What role do mushrooms play in the transfer of matter and energy in ecosystems?
- How are decomposers an essential part of food chains and food webs?
- How do decomposers transfer energy from dead materials into a usable form for plants?
Maryland Farm & Harvest Clip
- What does it mean to “go foraging?”
- In what types of areas do wild mushrooms thrive?
- Why is it important to do research before foraging for mushrooms?
Vocabulary
Supplemental Enrichment Activities
Developing Decomposer Food Chain Models
Students will develop food chain models similar to the one shown in the resource. In these models, students should include the sun, a producer, consumers, and a decomposer. Students should also show the movement of matter and energy within this food chain.
Transfer in Ecosystems
Decomposer Video
Students will watch a video related to decomposers and their importance in ecosystems. Students should then explain how decomposers transfer and cycle matter and energy, making them useful for plants and other photosynthetic organisms.
Decomposers Article
Students will read an informational article about four different types of decomposers found in ecosystems, that all help in the transfer of matter and energy among organisms and the soil. Students should develop a graphic organizer to better understand these four types of decomposers and their roles in ecosystems.
Career Connections
