Nutrition in Plants and Animals

autotrophic nutrition

Plants primarily use ________, meaning they create their own food through photosynthesis.

heterotrophic nutrition

However, some plants exhibit ____________, depending on other organisms for nutrients.

photosynthesis

Autotrophic plants synthesize their own food using carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and sunlight in a process called ___________.

heterotrophic nutrition in plants

Some plants cannot make their own food and rely on other organisms for nutrients.

Parasitic Plants

Steal nutrients from a host (e.g., Cuscuta, Rafflesia, Mistletoe).

Saprophytic Plants

Absorb nutrients from dead organic matter (e.g., Mushrooms, Monotropa).

Insectivorous Plants

Trap and digest insects (e.g., Venus Flytrap, Pitcher Plant).

Symbiotic Plants

Live in partnership with other organisms (e.g., Lichens, Leguminous Plants).

heterotrophic

Animals are ________, meaning they must obtain nutrients from other organisms.

Holozoic Nutrition

Ingestion of solid food, digestion, absorption, and excretion (e.g., humans, lions).

Saprophytic Nutrition

Absorption of nutrients from dead and decaying matter (e.g., fungi, some bacteria).

Parasitic Nutrition

Feeding on a host organism (e.g., tapeworms, leeches).

Carbohydrates

Provide energy (e.g., bread, rice).

Proteins

Essential for growth and repair (e.g., meat, beans).

Fats

Store energy and protect organs (e.g., butter, oils).

Vitamins

Support body functions (e.g., Vitamin C for immunity).

Minerals

Help in bone formation and enzyme function (e.g., calcium, iron).

Water

Vital for metabolism and circulation.

Protozoans

Use pseudopods for food intake. Digest food in a vacuole with lysosomes.

Detritivores

Consume dead plants and animals. Play a key role in nutrient recycling. Examples: Earthworms, millipedes, crabs.