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).

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.