Definition

Describing organisms, especially certain fungi, that thrive on animal waste or dung.

Example

Some species of fungi are coprophilous, meaning they grow on animal droppings.

Conversation

Did you know there are mushrooms that are coprophilous?

Really? What does that even mean?

It means they grow on dung, like animal waste.

That's so interesting! Nature is full of surprises.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Coprophilous → It is formed from "copro-" (from Greek "kopros", meaning dung) and "-philous" (from Greek "philos", meaning loving or fond of). The word describes organisms that thrive in or are attracted to dung.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dung' ('copros') and 'loving' ('philos') to remember that 'coprophilous' refers to organisms that love or thrive in dung.

Visually Confused Words