detritivore

noun

de·tri·ti·vore | \di-ˈtrī-tə-ˌvȯr

Definition of detritivore

: an organism (such as an earthworm or a fungus) that feeds on dead and decomposing organic matter

Examples of detritivore in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The discussion about detritivores, which process waste material into soil by way of their own humus-like waste material. — David Gilbert, The New Yorker, "Fungus," 4 June 2017 These non-insect arthropods are usually detritivores (feed on decaying plant material), but can and do sometimes feed on vegetables, particularly root vegetables like carrots and sugar beets. — OregonLive.com, "Help! My tomatoes are dying: Ask an expert," 31 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'detritivore.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.