Translation guide
The biological process of feeding on dead or decaying organic matter. This is a technical term used mainly in ecology and biology.
The general biological concept of consuming dead or decaying organic material.
The most direct and common term for saprophagy in biological contexts. It literally means 'rot-eating' and is used for organisms that feed on decaying matter.
Referring to an organism that practices saprophagy.
A saprophage; an organism that feeds on decaying matter. This is the standard term.
Saprophagy is a highly technical term. In casual conversation, even among Japanese speakers, it is rarely used. If you are explaining the concept to a non-specialist, you might simply say 「死んだものを食べる」 (eat dead things) or describe the process.
菌類は腐食によって栄養を得る。
Fungi obtain nutrients through saprophagy.
A more formal or scientific term meaning 'saprophytic nutrition', often used in botany and mycology.
This plant lives by saprophagy.
Literally 'dead-thing parasitism', an older or more technical term sometimes used in biology. Less common in modern usage.
Saprophagy plays an important role in the ecosystem.
Earthworms are important saprophages.
Saprophytic organism; often used for plants or fungi that live on dead matter.
Saprophytes grow on fallen trees.
Specifically an animal that feeds on decaying matter (saprophagous animal). Less common than 腐食者.
Saprophagous animals decompose carcasses.