Ecosystem Interactions Glossary

noun a plant, fungus, or microorganism that lives on dead or decaying organic matter

• A saprophyte is an organism that feeds on dead or decaying organic matter.
• The saprophyte plays a crucial role in breaking down dead plant material in the forest.
• Hey, did you know that saprophytes are like nature's recyclers?
• In a way, artists can be seen as saprophytes, drawing inspiration from the past to create something new.

noun A cold-blooded animal that regulates its body temperature based on external sources such as the environment

• Ectotherms are animals that rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.
• Did you know that most reptiles are ectotherms?
• Ectotherms are like the chill bros of the animal kingdom, just soaking up the sun for warmth.
• Being an ectotherm in a cold-blooded world can have its advantages.