How are living organisms involved in the cycling of carbon?

Examples of living organisms involved in the cycling of carbon include plants, animals and microorganisms. Plants, for instance, take part in photosynthesis - a process through which carbon dioxide is taken in from the atmosphere. Carbon is also used by plants to make organic compounds including different carbohydrates (like cellulose) and proteins (such as enzymes). Meanwhile, animals are involved through the fact that many of them consume plants, and other animals, which all contain carbon. Additionally, animals respire, thus releasing carbon dioxide.When plants and animals die, microorganisms breakdown dead organisms, which leads to a release in carbon dioxide. Like other organisms, microorganisms respire, too.