Question

What are saprophytes and their mode of nutrition? [3 MARKS]

Answer 1

Each point: 1 Mark

1. The organisms which obtain their nutrition from dead and decaying organic matter are called as saprophytes. Saprophytes are generally fungi or micro-organisms.
2. Saprophytes secrete digestive juices (enzymes) like cellulases, proteases and lipases onto dead and decaying matter to dissolve it and then absorb nutrients from it.
3. These organisms extend their mycelium and secrete enzymes to digest the decaying matter. E.g. mushroom and non-photosynthetic plants, such as Indian pipe and gnome plant.