saprozoic

(sap′rə zōik)

adjective

  1. absorbing simple organic material and dissolved salts for nourishment: said of certain animals
  2. of a saprophyte, esp. an animal parasite lacking a functional digestive system, as the tapeworm

Origin: sapro- + zo(o)- + -ic

See saprozoic in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Obtaining nourishment by absorption of dissolved organic and inorganic materials, as in protozoans and some fungi.
  2. Feeding on dead or decaying animal matter.

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