Question

Define:

(i) Autotrophs

(ii) Heterotrophs

Answer 1

(i)

Autotrophs:

1. Autotrophs can synthesize their food using the inorganic raw material and are independent.
2. They do not consume other organisms to fulfill their energy requirements.
3. They capture solar energy through organelles like chlorophylls to synthesize sugar or starch (food).

Examples:

Plants like trees, shrubs, herbs, blue-green algae, and grass.

(ii)

Heterotrophs:

1. Heterotrophs do not synthesize their food. They consume/eat or feed on or get the energy from other organisms.
2. They are usually called consumers because they consume and do not synthesize.
3. The four types of heterotrophs are herbivores, carnivores, parasites, and omnivores.

Examples:

All animals, tapeworms, and microorganisms like fungi.