2. Breaking down dead organisms and recycling nutrients is the role of __ A. Autotrophs B. Detritus C. Heterotrophs D. Decomposers

The correct answer is D. Decomposers.Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, and in doing so, they carry out the natural process of decomposition. They play a crucial role in recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Examples of decomposers include bacteria and fungi.