saprobic
/səˈproʊbɪk/
adjective
- Relating to or living in decaying organic matter; describing organisms that feed on dead or rotting material.
- Many fungi are saprobic, breaking down dead leaves and wood in the forest.
- The saprobic bacteria in the compost pile help turn kitchen scraps into rich soil.
- Saprobic organisms play a key role in recycling nutrients in ecosystems.
Synonyms