Natural Processes of Cellulose Decomposition

**1. Decomposition by Microorganisms:

• Cellulose Decomposition begins with microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi breaking down plant material in the soil. For example, in forest ecosystems, fungi like white rot fungi decompose cellulose, converting it into simpler compounds.

**2. Formation of Humus:

• As microorganisms decompose cellulose, it forms humus, a dark, organic material in soil. Humus improves soil fertility and structure, while its breakdown process continues to release carbon dioxide (CO2) and water into the atmosphere.

**3. Cellulose Fermentation:

• In anaerobic conditions, such as in wetlands or the digestive systems of ruminants (e.g., cattle), cellulose fermentation by microbes produces methane (CH4) in addition to CO2 and water. For example, the rumen of cattle hosts microbes that ferment cellulose from ingested plant material.

**4. Carbon Sequestration and Release:

• Over time, some cellulose-derived carbon is sequestered in peatlands or sedimentary layers before being released as CO2 through natural processes like soil respiration or biological decay.

Recent Example:

• In 2023, studies of Amazon rainforest soil showed how high moisture levels enhance microbial activity, accelerating cellulose decomposition and impacting carbon cycling in tropical ecosystems.

These natural processes ensure that cellulose is efficiently converted into carbon dioxide, water, and other end products, contributing to the global carbon cycle and soil health.