detritivore

[ dih-trahy-tuh-vawr, -vohr ]

nounEcology.
  1. an organism that uses organic waste as a food source, as certain insects.

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Origin of detritivore

1
First recorded in 1975–80; detrit(us) + -i- + -vore

Other words from detritivore

  • det·ri·tiv·or·ous [de-truh-tiv-er-uhs], /ˌdɛ trəˈtɪv ər əs/, de·triv·or·ous [dih-triv-er-uhs], /dɪˈtrɪv ər əs/, adjective

Words Nearby detritivore

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

Scientific definitions for detritivore

detritivore

[ dĭ-trītə-vôr′ ]


  1. An organism that feeds on and breaks down dead plant or animal matter, returning essential nutrients to the ecosystem. Detritivores include microorganisms such as bacteria and protists as well as larger organisms such as fungi, insects, worms, and isopod crustaceans. In a food chain, detritivores are primary consumers. Compare carnivore herbivore.

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