sarconecrophagy
- Pronunciation
- /sar-koh-NEH-kroh-fuh-jee/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- sarconecrophagy
- Plural
- sarconecrophagies
Definition
The consumption of decaying flesh by certain insects, such as carrion beetles and some types of flies.
Etymology
From Greek 'sarx' meaning 'flesh', 'necros' meaning 'dead', and 'phagy' meaning 'eating'.
Example
The sarconecrophagy behavior of blowflies plays a crucial role in the decomposition process by consuming decaying animal tissues.
Synonyms
- Necrophagy
- Carrion feeding
Related Terms
- Scavenger
- Decomposition
- Entomophagy
- Forensic entomology
Usage Notes
Sarconecrophagy is an important ecological function that aids in nutrient recycling and the natural decomposition process.