Revisiting decomposition theory through a macro-detritivore lens

The established paradigm that terrestrial decomposition is driven mainly by substrate quality and climate relies heavily on studies of microbial decomposers in mesic environments. We argue that this strong regulation is mitigated by macrofaunal detritivores. Larger body size, lower sensitivity to desiccation, nutritional adaptations, and greater mobility allow macro-detritivores to decompose detrital resources when decomposition by smaller organisms is limited. Furthermore, macro-detritivores enhance microbial decomposition under stressful conditions through the fragmentation and translocation of recalcitrant detritus to nutrient-enriched and climate-buffered locations. Incorporating macro-detritivores into decomposition theory will generate a more comprehensive understanding of elemental cycling and reveal understudied pathways that could become influential in a warmer and drier world.