What term describes a clump of living organisms feeding on wastes?

The term that describes a clump of living organisms feeding on wastes is biomass. Biomass typically consists of a variety of microorganisms that thrive in waste treatment processes, specifically in conditions where organic matter is present. These microorganisms play a crucial role in breaking down pollutants and decomposing organic materials in wastewater, allowing for the treatment and purification of water before it is released back into the environment.

Biosolids, while related, refer specifically to the nutrient-rich organic materials that can be recycled from wastewater and are suitable for land application. Slurry refers to a mixture of liquids and solids, often in a semi-liquid state, but does not specifically imply the presence of living organisms or their activity in waste treatment. Filtrate is the liquid that has passed through a filter, typically devoid of suspended solids or living organisms, and is not related to the clumping of living organisms that feed on waste.