1. living on or obtaining nutrients from dead or decaying organic matter
Usage: biology; ecology

Examples

• Saprobic bacteria play a crucial role in decomposing fallen leaves.
• The forest floor is rich with saprobic organisms breaking down organic debris.
• Many fungi are saprobic, feeding on dead plant material.
• Saprobic microorganisms help recycle nutrients in the ecosystem.
• The pond’s saprobic bacteria levels indicate high organic pollution.
• Scientists studied the saprobic community in the compost pile.