Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
biotroph
noun
/ˈbaɪ.əˌtrɒf/
Definition
An organism that derives its nutrients from living hosts without killing them.
Examples
- The enzyme produced by the biotroph helps in the absorption of nutrients from the host.
- Some fungi are biotrophs, living on plant tissues while benefiting the plant in nutrient exchange.
Meaning
Biotrophs are species that obtain their food by feeding on living organisms, often forming a symbiotic relationship where the host is not harmed.
Synonyms
- Symbiont
- Parasite (in a non-harmful context)
- Mutualist
