# abiotrophic

CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abiotrophic
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

describing a type of plant or fungus that does not need to live on a living host. These organisms get their food from dead matter or the soil.

For teachers: relating to organisms that derive nutrients from non-living organic matter rather than from a living host. Often used to describe certain types of fungi or plants.

## Examples

- The abiotrophic fungus grows on dead wood.
- Unlike parasitic species, abiotrophic organisms do not harm the living cells of their environment.
- The study of abiotrophic species is essential for understanding how ecosystems recycle nutrients through the decomposition of organic material.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.