Detrital food web

Definition

Detrital food web is a system where energy flows through ecosystems via the decomposition of organic matter. It involves organisms that feed on dead plant and animal material and the microorganisms that help in breaking down this detritus.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Detrital food webs play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within ecosystems.
2. Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, are key players in detrital food webs.
3. Detritivores, like earthworms and certain insects, physically break down organic matter.
4. Energy flow in detrital food webs starts from dead organic material rather than live plants or animals.
5. Detrital food webs contribute to soil formation and fertility by recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Review Questions

• What role do decomposers play in a detrital food web?
• How does energy flow differ between a detrital and grazing food web?
• Why are detrital food webs important for nutrient cycling?

Related terms

Decomposer:

Organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms to recycle nutrients.

Detrivore: Animals that feed on dead organic material, especially plant detritus.

NutrientCycling: The movement and exchange of organic and inorganic matter back into the production of living matter.