Definition
detritivores
noun
- organisms that feed on detritus, dead organic matter such as decaying plants and animals
Usage: plural form; used in biology and ecology; includes bacteria, fungi, insects, and other organisms
Examples
- Detritivores play a crucial role in breaking down dead leaves and wood in the forest.
- Earthworms are important detritivores that help recycle nutrients in soil.
- Many detritivores, such as millipedes and beetles, are found in leaf litter.
- Without detritivores, dead organic matter would accumulate and ecosystems would become unbalanced.
- Fungi are among the most efficient detritivores in nature.
- Detritivores help convert dead organisms into nutrients that plants can use.