Saprobe (Noun)
Meaning
An organism that lives in and derives its nourishment from organic matter in stagnant or foul water.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- A saprobe was discovered in the stagnant pond, feeding on the decaying plant matter that lined the bottom.
- The researchers identified several types of saprobes thriving in the polluted lake, which was essentially a giant nutrient-recovery system.
- In the fetid swamp, the saprobes outnumbered all other organisms, and played a crucial role in breaking down organic waste.
- The waterborne fungus was a classic example of a saprobe, obtaining all its nutrients from the rotting carcass of a dead fish.
- Scientists studying the ecology of vernal pools found that certain species of bacteria and fungi were prolific saprobes, recycling organic matter in the temporary water habitats.