Autotrophs
Definition
Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food from the substances available in their surroundings using light (photosynthesis) or chemical energy (chemosynthesis).
Analogy
Think of autotrophs like a self-sustaining garden. They don't need to go out and buy food because they can make it themselves, just like a garden produces its own fruits and vegetables.
Related terms
Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll pigments.
Chemosynthesis: The synthesis of organic compounds within an organism, with chemical reactions providing the energy source.
Producer: An organism, either a green plant or bacterium, which is part of the first level of a food chain.
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