Which term describes organisms that obtain energy by feeding on dead organic matter?

Which term describes organisms that obtain energy by feeding on dead organic matter?

• A. Producer
• B. Predator
• C. Saprophytic
• D. Prey

Answer: (C)

Organisms that obtain energy from feeding on dead organic matter are saprophytic. They break down dead material by secreting enzymes outside their cells and then absorb the resulting simpler compounds for energy and growth. This makes them decomposers, essential for recycling nutrients in ecosystems. Classic examples include fungi and many bacteria that digest fallen leaves, wood, and other detritus. This contrasts with producers, which synthesize their own organic matter (often by photosynthesis); predators, which hunt living prey; and prey, the organisms that are eaten. So saprophytic is the term that best describes this energy source.

Organisms that obtain energy from feeding on dead organic matter are saprophytic. They break down dead material by secreting enzymes outside their cells and then absorb the resulting simpler compounds for energy and growth. This makes them decomposers, essential for recycling nutrients in ecosystems. Classic examples include fungi and many bacteria that digest fallen leaves, wood, and other detritus. This contrasts with producers, which synthesize their own organic matter (often by photosynthesis); predators, which hunt living prey; and prey, the organisms that are eaten. So saprophytic is the term that best describes this energy source.