Dictionary.net

an organism that feeds on dead organic matter especially a fungus or bacterium

an organism that feeds on dead organic matter especially a fungus or bacterium

A plant which grows on decaying vegetable matter. A microorganism which grows normally on dead matter, as distinguished from a parasite.

A plant organism that grows upon decaying matter.

A plant that derives its sustenance from decomposing organic substances, as opposed to a parasite living in or on a living host. The term is especially applied to bacteria.