What do we call the group of simple, plantlike organisms that feed on dead organic matter?

The group of simple, plantlike organisms that feed on dead organic matter is known as fungi. Fungi play a crucial ecological role as decomposers, breaking down organic material and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. They are distinct from plants because they do not perform photosynthesis; instead, they absorb nutrients from their surroundings, including decaying plants and animal matter.

Fungi are characterized by their structure, which includes mycelium (the network of filaments) and spores for reproduction. This capability allows them to thrive in various environments where organic matter is present, making them essential for the decomposition process and nutrient cycling in ecosystems.

While algae are also simple organisms, they primarily perform photosynthesis and do not feed on organic matter the same way fungi do. Bacteria can decompose organic material as well, but they are microscopic single-celled organisms and not classified as plantlike. Protozoa, on the other hand, are single-celled organisms that can consume organic material, but they are typically more associated with feeding on bacteria and smaller organic particles than directly on dead organic matter like fungi do.