Saprófitos

Saprófitos are organisms that obtain nutrients by decomposing dead or decaying organic matter. This process is essential for nutrient cycling in ecosystems. They are primarily fungi and bacteria, though some specialized protists and invertebrates also exhibit saprophytic behavior. Saprophytes play a crucial role as decomposers, breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler substances that can be reabsorbed by plants and other organisms.

The term "saprophyte" derives from the Greek words "sapros" meaning rotten and "phyton" meaning plant, although it is not exclusively applied to plants. Fungi, such as mushrooms and molds, are well-known saprophytes. They secrete extracellular enzymes that digest the organic material externally, and then absorb the resulting nutrients. Bacteria also contribute significantly to decomposition through similar enzymatic processes.

Without saprophytes, dead organic material would accumulate, and essential nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus would remain locked up, unavailable to living organisms. This decomposition makes these nutrients available in forms that producers, like plants, can utilize. Therefore, saprophytes are fundamental to the health and sustainability of virtually all terrestrial and aquatic environments. Their activity prevents the buildup of waste and ensures the continuous flow of matter through the food web.