What process do decomposers such as bacteria undergo in ecosystems?

The process that decomposers, such as bacteria, undergo in ecosystems is decomposition. Decomposers play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter from dead plants, animals, and waste products. This breakdown process involves the transformation of complex organic substances into simpler inorganic materials, which results in the release of nutrients back into the soil and water. This nutrient recycling is vital for maintaining ecosystem health, as it allows for the continuous availability of nutrients that primary producers, like plants, need to grow.

During decomposition, bacteria and other decomposers metabolize the organic matter, providing essential compounds that support the growth of new life. Without decomposition, ecosystems would become overwhelmed with dead organic material, leading to a decline in overall productivity and biodiversity.

The other processes mentioned in the question are distinct from decomposition. Photosynthesis refers to how plants convert sunlight into energy, predation involves one organism hunting and consuming another for survival, and transpiration is the process of water movement through plants, specifically how water evaporates from the leaves. Thus, these processes do not align with the role of decomposers in ecosystems.