Volume 1 discusses the breakdown of debris. This is a vital process in the maintenance of the fertility of the natural environment, but the types of debris produced vary greatly - including microscopic organisms, forest trees, and man-made litter, such as plastics. In normal circumstances the bulk of plant debris is quickly decomposed, although the decomposer- organisms, involved and the decomposition routes followed vary considerably. In the second volume, eleven chapters describe the organisms which attack and destroy each type of litter, and coverage is given to their biology and interrelationships in association with the different types of litter. Environmental influences on the type of litter produced and the nature of the breakdown which occurs, are investigated, and the effects of this action are fully examined in the latter part of the book.
