1. organisms that obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic matter
Usage: biology; plural form

Examples

• Saprobes play a crucial role in recycling nutrients in forest ecosystems.
• Many fungi are saprobes that break down fallen leaves and dead wood.
• The soil is rich with saprobes that decompose organic waste.
• Bacteria and fungi are the most common types of saprobes.
• Without saprobes, dead plant material would accumulate indefinitely.
• Scientists study saprobes to understand nutrient cycling in nature.