Organisms that break down organic matter and return it to the environment are called __ decomposers consumers scavengers producers

## Step 1<br />The question is asking for the type of organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, and in doing so, they carry out the natural process of decomposition. <br /><br />## Step 2<br />Let's analyze each option:<br />- Consumers are organisms that consume other organisms for energy. They do not break down dead or decaying organisms.<br />- Scavengers are organisms that consume dead organisms that they did not kill themselves. They do not break down dead or decaying organisms.<br />- Producers are organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis. They do not break down dead or decaying organisms.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Based on the above analysis, the correct answer is 'decomposers'. Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, and in doing so, they carry out the natural process of decomposition.