mycetophagy

Pronunciation: /my-SEE-toh-fuh-jee/

Category: Behavior

Singular: mycetophagy

Plural: mycetophagies

Definition

The consumption of fungi or fungal material as a primary food source.

Etymology

From Greek 'mykes' meaning 'fungus' and 'phagein' meaning 'to eat'.

Example

Certain beetle species exhibit mycetophagy by feeding primarily on decaying fungi.

Synonyms

Fungivory

Related Terms

Fungi
Diet
Saprophagy
Symbiosis

Usage Notes

Mycetophagy is observed in various insect groups, including beetles, flies, and some ants, and plays a critical role in ecosystems by contributing to the decomposition process.