Oligotroph
Oligotroph
Oligotroph (pronounced: /ˌɒlɪˈɡɒtrəf/) is a term used in the field of Ecology and Microbiology to describe organisms that can survive in an environment that offers very low levels of nutrients. They are often contrasted with copiotrophs, which prefer nutrient-rich environments.
Etymology
The term "Oligotroph" is derived from the Greek words oligos meaning "few" and trophe meaning "nourishment".
Characteristics
Oligotrophs are characterized by their ability to grow in environments with low nutrient concentrations. These organisms have adaptations that allow them to efficiently use the scarce resources available to them. They are typically found in environments such as deep ocean waters, glacial and polar ice, deep subsurface soil, and high-altitude atmospheric aerosols.
Related Terms
- Autotroph: An organism that produces complex organic compounds from simple substances present in its surroundings, generally using energy from light or inorganic chemical reactions.
- Heterotroph: An organism that cannot produce its own food, instead taking nutrition from other sources of organic carbon, mainly plant or animal matter.
- Mixotroph: An organism that can use a mix of different sources of energy and carbon, instead of having a single trophic mode.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Oligotroph
- Wikipedia's article - Oligotroph
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