Autotrophs

Autotrophs

Autotrophs (pronounced: /ˈɔːtəʊtrɒf, -troʊf/), from the Greek words "auto" meaning "self" and "troph" meaning "nourishment", are organisms that can produce their own food from the substances available in their surroundings using light (photosynthesis) or chemical energy (chemosynthesis).

Types of Autotrophs

Autotrophs are divided into two categories:

1. Photoautotrophs: These organisms use light energy, usually from the Sun, to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process is known as photosynthesis. Examples of photoautotrophs include plants, algae, and some types of bacteria.

2. Chemoautotrophs: These organisms use chemical energy to produce food. They obtain energy from the oxidation of inorganic substances, such as iron, sulfur, and certain types of nitrogen compounds. Examples of chemoautotrophs include certain types of bacteria and archaea.

Importance of Autotrophs

Autotrophs play a crucial role in the biosphere as they are the primary producers in the food chain. They convert inorganic materials into organic compounds, which are then consumed by heterotrophs, organisms that cannot produce their own food.

Related Terms

• Heterotrophs
• Photosynthesis
• Chemosynthesis
• Biosphere
• Food chain

See Also

• Producer (Biology)
• Consumer (Biology)
• Decomposer

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Autotrophs
• Wikipedia's article - Autotrophs

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