Definition of detritivore
: an organism (such as an earthworm or a fungus) that feeds on dead and decomposing organic matter
- Trending Now: More Trending:
- exculpatory ideologue socialism uphold due process
- ALL
What's Trending Now
More Trending Words
Recent Examples of detritivore from the Web
-
The discussion about detritivores, which process waste material into soil by way of their own humus-like waste material.
-
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.
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.
Origin and Etymology of detritivore
International Scientific Vocabulary detritus + -i- + -vore (from Latin -vorus -vorous)
Learn More about detritivore
-
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about detritivore
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up detritivore? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
