calcivores

Calcivores are a group of organisms that consume calcium-rich materials. This dietary specialization is not as widely recognized as herbivory or carnivory but plays a significant role in certain ecosystems. The term "calcivore" derives from the Latin word "calx" meaning lime or calcium, and the Greek word "phagein" meaning to eat. These organisms have evolved specific adaptations to break down and extract nutrients from materials like limestone, shells, and coral skeletons.

The most well-known examples of calcivores are found in the marine environment. Certain species of sea urchins, for instance, possess specialized radular teeth that allow them to graze on coralline algae and other calcified structures. Some mollusks also exhibit calcivorous tendencies, using their radula or beak to scrape calcium carbonate from surfaces. In terrestrial environments, examples are rarer but can include certain insect larvae that bore into chalk or limestone deposits.

The ecological significance of calcivores lies in their role as bioeroders. By consuming and breaking down calcium carbonate structures, they contribute to nutrient cycling and habitat modification. For example, the erosion of coral reefs by calcivorous organisms can create new microhabitats for other species and influence reef structure over time. Their feeding habits can also impact the availability of calcium for other organisms in the environment. The specific physiological mechanisms by which calcivores digest and absorb calcium from their diet are areas of ongoing scientific research.