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.<br /><br />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.