Heterotrophs and Autotrophs

What is a heterotroph?

A heterotroph is an organism that cannot produce its own food and instead obtains its nutrients and energy by consuming other organisms

What is an autotroph?

An autotroph is an organism that can produce its own food using light, water, carbon dioxide, or other chemicals

What are hydrothermal vents?

Hydrothermal vents are openings in the sea floor that emit heated water enriched with minerals

What are the three trophic levels in an ecosystem?

The three trophic levels are producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers

What is methane?

Methane is a colorless, odorless gas that is a primary component of natural gas and a potent greenhouse gas. It is produced by both natural processes, like the decomposition of organic matter, and human activities.

What are phytoplankton?

Phytoplankton are microscopic marine organisms that photosynthesize and form the base of the aquatic food web.

What is chemosynthesis?

Chemosynthesis is the process by which certain organisms, such as bacteria, convert inorganic compounds into organic matter using chemical energy, typically from sulfur or methane, rather than sunlight.

What is oxidation?

Oxidation is a chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons.

What is glucose?

Glucose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) that serves as a primary source of energy for living organisms. It is essential for cellular respiration and is commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and honey.

What is cellulose?

Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate that forms the structural component of the cell wall in green plants, algae, and some bacteria. It is composed of long chains of glucose units linked by beta-glycosidic bonds, providing strength in plant cells.

What are detritivores?

Detritivores are organisms that feed on dead organic matter, breaking it down into smaller particles and contributing to nutrient cycling in ecosystems

What is chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria, essential for photosynthesis as it captures light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, typically from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.

How do photoheterotrophs use carbon?

Photoheterotrophs utilize organic compounds as a source of carbon, along with light energy, to obtain energy for growth and cellular processes.

What is bacteria?

Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can be found in various environments and have diverse shapes and functions.