Detritus facts for kids

In biology, detritus is non-living particules of organic origin. Typically, it includes the bodies or fragments of dead organisms as well as faecal material.

Detritus is typically colonized by communities of fungi and microorganisms which act to decompose (break down) the material. In terrestrial ecosystems, leaf litter and other organic matter gets mixed with soil. The result is called humus. Detritus of aquatic ecosystems is organic material suspended in water, which is sometimes referred to as marine snow. Marine snow is the basis of much life on the ocean floor. It is the food of animals which operate as 'filter-feeders'.

Images for kids

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  Horse feces and hay are forms of detritus, and are used as manure.

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  Sequoiadendron giganteum (giant sequoia) cones and foliage, sugar pine and white fir foliage, and other plant litter constitute the duff layer that covers the ground of Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park, United States.

See also

In Spanish: Detrito para niños