What is a bottom feeder?

Bottom feeders are aquatic animals that feed on the organic matter that settles at the bottom of bodies of water. This includes dead plant material, decaying animals, and other detritus. Bottom feeders play an important role in ecosystems by recycling nutrients and keeping the environment clean.

Some common examples of bottom feeders include catfish, carp, shrimp, and crabs. These animals have adaptations such as barbels (whisker-like sensory organs) and flattened bodies that help them navigate and feed on the bottom of the water.

Bottom feeders are often scavengers, feeding on whatever they can find on the bottom of the water. They are an important part of the food chain, providing food for predators higher up in the food chain.

Some bottom feeders are also popular in the seafood industry, as they are a source of protein for humans. However, it is important to be aware of sustainable fishing practices to ensure the continued health of bottom feeder populations and the ecosystems they inhabit.