What role do detritus-based pathways play in coastal ecosystems, particularly in seagrass beds?

• A. Detritus-based pathways are important in coastal ecosystems but only when seagrass is present.
• B. Detritus suppresses microbial activity and reduces nutrient recycling.
• C. Detritus-based pathways are only relevant in open oceans, not coastal.
• D. Detritus from primary producers feeds detritivores and microbial communities, recycling nutrients and sustaining food webs when primary production is patchy.

Answer: (D)