Detritivorous: meaning, definitions and examples
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detritivorous
[ dɪˈtraɪtɪvərəs ]
ecological classification
Detritivorous organisms feed on detritus, which consists of decomposing plant and animal parts as well as organic matter. These organisms play a vital role in nutrient cycling within ecosystems by breaking down dead organic material.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Worms are detritivorous, consuming dead leaves and organic debris.
- Detritivorous fish contribute to the breakdown of dead aquatic organisms.
- Some insects like certain beetles are detritivorous, helping decompose wood.
Translations
Translations of the word "detritivorous" in other languages:
🇵🇹 detritívoro
🇮🇳 डीट्रिटिवोरस
🇩🇪 Detritivor
🇮🇩 detritivora
🇺🇦 детритивор
🇵🇱 detrytivor
🇯🇵 デトリティボラス
🇫🇷 détritivore
🇪🇸 detritívoro
🇹🇷 detritivor
🇰🇷 퇴적물 먹이
🇸🇦 مستهلك الحطام
🇨🇿 detritivor
🇸🇰 detritivor
🇨🇳 腐食性生物
🇸🇮 detritivor
🇮🇸 niðurbrotar
🇰🇿 детритивор
🇬🇪 დეტრიტივორი
🇦🇿 detritivor
🇲🇽 detritívoro
Word origin
The term 'detritivorous' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the Latin word 'detritus,' meaning 'worn away' or 'rubbing away.' The suffix '-vorous' comes from the Latin 'vorare,' meaning 'to devour.' In ecology, 'detritus' refers to organic matter that is in various stages of decomposition, which is essential for nutrient recycling. As scientific understanding of ecological interactions grew, particularly during the 20th century, the importance of detritivores in food webs and ecosystem health became more recognized. Detritivorous organisms include various fauna, such as earthworms, certain fungi, and some types of crustaceans, which facilitate the decomposition process by breaking down organic waste, thus enriching the soil and providing nutrients for plants. This functional role highlights their ecological significance in maintaining biodiversity and the balance of ecosystems.