Definition

Relating to organisms that feed on dead or decaying organic material.

Example

Many fungi are saprophagous, breaking down dead plants and animals.

Conversation

Did you know that some insects are saprophagous?

Really? What does that mean?

It means they feed on decaying organic matter.

That's interesting! Nature has such a unique way of recycling.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Saprophagous → It is formed from "sapro-" (from Greek "sapros", meaning rotten) and "phagous" (from Greek "phagein", meaning to eat). The word describes organisms that feed on decaying or rotten matter.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rotten' ('sapro-') and 'eating' ('phagous') to remember that saprophagous refers to organisms that eat decaying material.

Visually Confused Words