Coprophagous
- Pronunciation
- /kah-PROH-fuh-gus/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Coprophagous
- Plural
- Coprophagous organisms
Definition
Feeding on feces; a term often used to describe insects and other organisms that consume dung.
Etymology
From the Greek 'kopros' meaning 'dung' and 'phagein' meaning 'to eat'.
Example
Many beetles, such as dung beetles, are coprophagous and play a vital role in recycling nutrients in ecosystems.
Synonyms
- Dung-eating
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Coprophagous behavior is important in many ecosystems as it helps in the breakdown and recycling of animal waste products.