A microorganism that feeds on dead and decaying organic matter. Saprophytes excrete enzymes that digest organic residues externally, the low molecular weight compounds formed then being absorbed.
Source:
PAC, 1992, 64, 143. 'Glossary for chemists of terms used in biotechnology (IUPAC Recommendations 1992)' on page 165 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199264010143)