What is dead plant and animal tissue referred to as?

The term that refers to dead plant and animal tissue is organic matter. Organic matter is an essential component of soil, consisting of remains from plants and animals that have decayed over time. This organic material plays a critical role in soil health, as it enhances soil structure, increases its ability to hold moisture, and provides nutrients for plants.

Compost, while related, specifically refers to a mixture created by decomposing organic matter intentionally, usually through a managed process, and is often used as a fertilizer. Humus is a specific form of decomposed organic matter that is stable and well-rotted, contributing significantly to soil fertility and structure, but it represents only a portion of the broader category of organic matter. Decay refers to the process of decomposition itself; it describes the breakdown of organic materials but does not specifically identify them. Thus, organic matter is the most comprehensive term that encompasses all dead plant and animal tissues.