Saprophytes are organisms that feed on dead or decaying matter. They c...
Saprophytes and their Characteristics:
- Saprophytes are organisms that derive their nutrition from dead or decaying organic matter.
- They are unable to produce their own food through photosynthesis or other means.
- Instead, saprophytes obtain their nutrients by breaking down and absorbing organic material.
- These organisms play an important role in the decomposition process, helping to recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Identifying the Saprophyte:
Among the given options, we need to identify the organism that feeds on dead or decaying matter and cannot manufacture its own food. Let's analyze each option:
A: Money plant
The money plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is a photosynthetic plant that can produce its own food through photosynthesis. It is not a saprophyte.
B: Grass
Grass, like other plants, is capable of photosynthesis and can manufacture its own food. It is not a saprophyte.
C: Algae
Algae are photosynthetic organisms that can produce their own food through photosynthesis. They are not saprophytes.
D: Mushroom
Mushrooms are fungi that obtain their nutrients by decomposing organic matter. They break down dead or decaying material and absorb the nutrients from it. Mushrooms are saprophytes.
Conclusion:
Among the given options, the organism that is a saprophyte is Mushroom (Option D). It feeds on dead or decaying matter and cannot manufacture its own food.