Chemoautotroph

Definition

A chemoautotroph is an organism that derives energy from inorganic chemical reactions and uses carbon dioxide as its primary carbon source. These organisms play crucial roles in various biogeochemical cycles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chemoautotrophs are typically found in environments where sunlight is not available, such as deep ocean vents and underground caves.
2. They obtain energy through the oxidation of inorganic molecules like hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, or ferrous iron.
3. Chemoautotrophs are essential in nitrogen and sulfur cycles, converting these elements into forms usable by other organisms.
4. They contribute to primary production in ecosystems where photosynthetic organisms cannot survive.
5. Certain bacteria and archaea are well-known examples of chemoautotrophs.

Review Questions

Related terms

Photoautotroph: An organism that uses light energy to convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds.

Chemoheterotroph: An organism that obtains both its energy and carbon from organic compounds.

Lithotrophy: A form of metabolism where inorganic substances serve as electron donors for energy production.