saprophyte
/ˈsæprəˌfaɪt/
noun
- A plant, fungus, or microorganism that lives on dead or decaying organic matter.
- Some saprophytes, like certain molds, can grow on old bread in your kitchen.
- The saprophyte helped recycle nutrients by feeding on the dead leaves.
- Mushrooms are common saprophytes that break down fallen logs in the forest.
Synonyms