Scavenger
Scavengers are animals that feed on dead and decaying organic matter. Often the term is used to describe the consumption of carrion, the bodies of animals that have died from causes other than predation or the bodies of animals that have been killed by other predators. However, the term is also used to describe animals that feed on rotting plant matter or refuse.
Vultures and burying beetles are examples of scavengers that feed on carrion, pink bud moth and stag beetle larvae are examples of scavengers that feed on rotting plant matter, and raccoons and squirrels are examples of scavengers that feed on refuse. Carrion-eating scavengers are called necrophages.
Scavengers play an important role in ecosystems by preventing the accumulation of decaying matter and helping to recycle nutrients. The process and rate at which dead plant and animal material is scavenged is affected by both biotic and abiotic factors, such as plant species, carcass size, habitat, temperature, moisture levels, and seasons. Detritivores and decomposers complete this process by consuming the remains left by scavengers.
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