saprophytic
/ˌsæprəˈfɪtɪk/
adjective
- Relating to or characteristic of a saprophyte; feeding on dead or decaying organic matter.
- Many bacteria are saprophytic and help break down waste in the soil.
- The saprophytic lifestyle of these organisms is essential for nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
- The saprophytic fungus spread across the rotting wood in the damp cellar.