Saprotrophs (Kingdom Fungi)

SAPROTROPHS

(Thriving on Decay)

Meaning:

A saprophyte or saprotroph may be decaying pieces of plants or animals. This means that saprophytes are heterotrophs. They are consumers in the food chain. Many bacteria and protozoa are also saprophytes. Most dead organic matter is eventually broken down and used by bacteria and fungi. Other terms, such as saprotroph or saprobe may be used instead of saprophyte. Strictly speaking, -phyte means plant. The problem is that no embryophytes (land plants) are true saprotrophs, and bacteria and fungi are no longer considered plants.

(Source: simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saprophyte)

Saprotrophs Importance

Saprotrophic mushrooms are decomposers. They release acids and enzymes that break down dead tissue into smaller molecules they can absorb. Thus decaying wood, plants, and even animals can become food for a saprotroph. 

(Source: www.mushroom-appreciation.com/types-of-mushroom.html)

Saprotrophic fungi are those that obtain their nutrition from non-living organic materials. it is difficult to overstate the importance of fungal saprotrophs in most environments. Their hyphae allow them to forcibly penetrate most solid materials and their extracellular enzymes allow them digest them. Fungi can attack solid material like leaves and wood that are not easily available to the single-celled bacteria. 

(Source: website.nbm-mnb.ca/mycologywebpages/NaturalHistoryOfFungi/Saprotrophs.html)

By:Donessa E. Borja