biophagous

/ˌbaɪoʊˈfæɡəs/ or /baɪˈɒfəɡəs/

Definitions

1. adjective

feeding on or obtaining nutrients from living organisms, especially in a parasitic manner

“The fungus is biophagous and obtains its nutrients from the decaying plant matter.”

2. noun

an organism that feeds on or obtains nutrients from living organisms

“The biophagous invertebrates are a crucial part of the ecosystem’s nutrient cycle.”

Synonyms

  • biophage
  • parasitic

Antonyms

  • autotrophic
  • detritivorous