Detritiche

Detritiche is a term used in biology and ecology to describe organisms that feed on detritus. Detritus is composed of dead organic matter, such as dead plants, animals, and waste products. Detritivores play a crucial role in ecosystems by breaking down this dead material and returning nutrients to the soil and water, making them available for producers like plants. This process is a vital part of nutrient cycling.

Common examples of detritivores include earthworms, millipedes, dung beetles, and many types of fungi and bacteria. These organisms are often found in environments rich in decaying organic material, such as forest floors, compost piles, and marine sediments. Their digestive systems are adapted to process tough, often partially decomposed organic matter.

The activity of detritivores is essential for decomposition, which prevents the accumulation of dead organisms and waste. By consuming and breaking down detritus, they simplify complex organic compounds into simpler substances that can be absorbed by plants, thus supporting the base of the food web. Without detritivores, ecosystems would be choked with dead organic material, and nutrient availability would be severely limited, impacting the health and productivity of the entire ecosystem.