What is a key feature of septic tanks regarding organic matter?

Septic tanks are designed specifically to digest organic matter through a natural biological process. Inside the tank, anaerobic bacteria break down solid waste and organic materials, converting them into simpler compounds. This digestion process reduces the volume of waste and helps in stabilizing the materials before they are further treated in the drain field.

The ability of septic tanks to digest organic matter is essential for their function, as it minimizes the accumulation of sludge and helps maintain the system's efficiency. This ongoing breakdown is crucial for preventing backups and ensuring proper waste management in such systems.

Other options, while partially relevant to the broader function of septic systems, do not accurately describe the primary role of septic tanks in relation to organic matter. Recycling may refer to the effective use or re-introduction of nutrients into the ecosystem but is not a direct function of septic tanks. Prevention is not applicable as the tanks are meant to manage rather than prevent organic matter. Storing organic matter is a function of the tank to some extent, but without the digestion process, they would not operate effectively. Therefore, the digestion of organic matter is the key functional feature that distinguishes septic tanks.