Malaria, a type of parasite, infects 500 million people each year by infecting the red bloodcells of its host. The virus, HIV, that causes AIDS, reports 50,000 newly infected persons. Which statement best differentiates the pathogens, parasites and viruses? A. All though both rely on other living organisms to survive, viruses are usually beneficial.

B. Although both rely on other living organisms to survive, parasites feed on the host organism.

C. Although both are living organisms, parasites depend on the cells of living things to reproduce.

D. Although both are living organisms, viruses break down dead plants and animals that other organisms use.

from my research i have to the conclusion that decomposers, such as fungi, bacteria and invertebrates, play a critical role in nutrient cycling and without them the earth's ecosystem may not support life as we know it. elements such as carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus exist in limited amounts on earth, although huge amounts of carbon are being released into the atmosphere from underground sources now by humans. it is still extremely important that other nutrients be retained by the process of re-use. decomposers are organisms that are able to chemically break down dead material and make these elements available for use by other organisms. without this breakdown of dead material, dead bodies would pile up. so decomposers also play a role in clean up also. without them, life might not continue as we know it and dead material would overwhelm the earth.    

i don't know, but does anyone wanna be friends? i'm doing my homework at 1: 49 in the morning : /