Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
xylophage
Noun
/ˈzīləˌfāj/
Definition
An organism that feeds on wood.
Examples
- Termites are well-known xylophages that can cause significant damage to wooden structures.
- The xylophage beetle plays a crucial role in breaking down dead trees, helping in nutrient recycling in the ecosystem.
Meaning
The term refers to species, particularly fungi or insects, that consume wood as their primary source of nutrition.
Synonyms
- Wood-eater
- Wood-feeding organism
- Xylophagous
