Detritivores

Definition

Detritivores are organisms that consume detritus, which is dead organic matter like fallen leaves or animal waste. They help break down this material into smaller particles for decomposition.

Analogy

Think of detritivores as nature's recyclers. Just like a compost bin in your backyard breaks down food scraps into nutrient-rich soil, detritivores break down dead plant and animal matter into smaller pieces that can be further decomposed by microorganisms.

Related terms

Decomposition: Decomposition is the process by which organic matter is broken down into simpler substances by decomposers and detritivores.

Earthworms: Earthworms are common detritivores found in soil. They consume dead plant material and help aerate the soil through their burrowing activities.

Dung Beetles: Dung beetles are detritivores that specialize in consuming animal dung. They play an important role in nutrient cycling by breaking down feces and returning nutrients back to the soil.