Heterotrophs

Definition

Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot produce their own food and must obtain energy by consuming other organisms. They rely on autotrophs directly or indirectly for their energy needs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Heterotrophs include animals, fungi, and most bacteria.
2. They play a crucial role in the food chain as consumers.
3. In contrast to autotrophs, heterotrophs do not perform photosynthesis.
4. Heterotrophic organisms can be classified into different types such as herbivores, carnivores, omnivores, and decomposers.
5. They depend on organic carbon sources for growth and energy.

Review Questions

• What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes heterotrophs from autotrophs?
• Why are heterotrophs dependent on autotrophs within an ecosystem?
• Can you name three types of heterotrophic organisms?

Related terms

Autotrophs: Organisms that produce their own food using sunlight or chemical energy.

Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll.

Food Chain: A series of organisms each dependent on the next as a source of food, illustrating the flow of energy through an ecosystem.