Question

Describe the heterotrophic mode of nutrition.

Answer 1

Heterotrophs: The organisms which depend on other organisms for food are called heterotrophs.

Heterotrophs are of three types :

1. Holozoic: The organisms which feed on solid types of food materials and feed exclusively are called holozoic. Examples: mammals and fishes
2. Saprotrophic: The organisms which feed on the dead and decaying matter as food are called saprotrophic organisms. Examples: fungi, molds, and a few animals.
3. Parasitic: The organisms that depend on living organisms for food, nourishment, and shelter and are present attached to the host is called a parasite. Examples: tapeworms, roundworms, etc.