algophagy
- Pronunciation
- /al-GOH-fuh-jee/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- algophagy
- Plural
- algophagies
Definition
The consumption of algae as a primary food source, observed in certain insect and arachnid species.
Etymology
From Greek 'algo-', meaning 'algae', and '-phagy', meaning 'eating'.
Example
Some species of aquatic insects engage in algophagy to sustain themselves during their larval stages.
Synonyms
- Algae feeding
Related Terms
- Herbivory
- Detritivory
- Trophic interactions
Usage Notes
Algophagy is a specialized feeding behavior that can be highly significant in aquatic ecosystems where algae form a substantial part of the biomass.