Organisms that feed on detritus, such as leaf litter and decomposing material, are called

• A. Omnivores
• B. Detritivores
• C. Decomposers
• D. Scavengers

Answer: (B)

Feeding on detritus means these organisms consume dead organic matter like leaf litter and decomposing material. They ingest and digest this material, turning loose detritus into usable energy and nutrients for themselves and helping push energy into the soil food web. This distinguishes them from decomposers (fungi, bacteria) that break down detritus externally with enzymes and absorb nutrients, and from scavengers that feed on larger dead animals. Omnivores eat both plant and animal matter, not specifically detritus. So the organisms that feed on detritus are detritivores.