Meaning & use
detritivore
An organism that feeds on dead organic matter, breaking it down and recycling nutrients into the ecosystem.
See it in a sentence
Earthworms are detritivores that help turn fallen leaves into rich garden soil.
Woodlice act as detritivores, consuming decaying wood and plant debris.
A note on using this word
Distinct from a 'decomposer' like bacteria or fungi, since a detritivore physically ingests dead matter rather than breaking it down chemically.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “detritivore”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.