Citation
Decomposition in Terrestrial Ecosystems
TL;DR
Decomposition proceeds through distinct stages with specialized organisms at each stage
This classic textbook synthesized decomposition biology including the cascade of decomposer organisms from scavengers to mineralizers. It established the foundational understanding that decomposition proceeds through specialized stages, each extracting different types of value from dead organic matter.
The cascade model directly informs the chapter's organizational framework: just as ecosystems have scavengers (rapid salvage), fungi/bacteria (medium-term extraction), and mineralizers (complete processing), organizations need equivalent stages for decomposing failed initiatives.
Key Findings from Swift et al. (1979)
- Decomposition proceeds through distinct stages with specialized organisms at each stage
- Different materials decompose at different rates based on chemical recalcitrance
- Temperature, moisture, and chemistry control decomposition rates across ecosystems