Can plants use the dead animals to survive?

Yes, plants can use dead animals to obtain nutrients necessary for their survival. This process, known as "saprotrophism" or "nutrient recycling," occurs when plants absorb essential elements from decaying animal matter.

When an animal dies, its body begins to decompose. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, break down the animal's tissues, releasing nutrients into the soil. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other essential elements that plants require for growth and development.

Plants absorb these nutrients through their roots, which extend into the soil and come into contact with the decomposing animal matter. The process is part of the natural nutrient cycle, where organic matter from dead organisms is converted into forms usable by plants.

Some plants, such as certain species of carnivorous plants, actively capture and consume small animals, insects, or other organisms to obtain nutrients. However, most plants rely on obtaining nutrients from decaying organic matter in the soil.