What are Heterotrophs?
Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot produce their own food and depend on other organisms or organic compounds. In the food chain they are consumers and they feed on autotrophs or other heterotrophs. In the food chain they are placed at the secondary or tertiary level.
Across different kingdoms, including animals, fungi, and some protists, heterotrophs are found in different forms. Specialized structures are present in these organisms to digest and absorb nutrients from organic matter.
The two main types of heterotrophs are:
- Herbivores: Herbivores are heterotrophs that consume plants. They obtain their energy by break down of complex carbohydrates, such as cellulose to simpler forms like glucose. Examples of herbivores include buffalo, cows, rabbits, and deer.
- Carnivores: Carnivores are heterotrophs that consume other animals. They acquire their energy and nutrients by consuming the flesh or body parts of other organisms. Examples include humans, dogs, bears, and pigs.
Difference Between Autotrophs and Heterotrophs
Autotrophs and heterotrophs represent the different modes of nutrition that have distinct ways of obtaining and utilizing energy and nutrients in the ecosystem. Autotrophs produce their own energy and serve as the primary producers while heterotrophs rely on consuming other organisms or organic matter for energy and serve as consumers in the food chain. These two nutritional mode represents the flow of energy and nutrition in the ecosystem.
Table of Content
- Definition of Autotrophs and Heterotrophs
- Differences Between Autotrophs and Heterotrophs
- What are Autotrophs?
- What are Heterotrophs?
- Key Points on Autotrophs and Heterotrophs