**Definition of Heterotroph:**

Heterotrophs are organisms that obtain their energy and nutrients by consuming other organisms or organic matter produced by other organisms. They are unable to produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, unlike autotrophs. Heterotrophs depend on the organic molecules synthesized by autotrophs for their survival and growth. They can be found in various kingdoms of life, including animals, fungi, and most bacteria.

**Autotrophic Nutrition:**

Autotrophic nutrition is a mode of nutrition in which organisms synthesize their own organic molecules from inorganic substances. This process occurs through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, depending on the organism.

1. **Photosynthesis:** In photosynthesis, autotrophs use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen. This process mainly occurs in plants and algae. The chlorophyll pigment present in their chloroplasts captures sunlight, and through a series of chemical reactions, converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose. The oxygen produced is released into the atmosphere.

2. **Chemosynthesis:** Chemosynthesis is a process in which autotrophic bacteria use chemicals, such as hydrogen sulfide or ammonia, as a source of energy to convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds. This process is common in deep-sea hydrothermal vents, where sunlight is absent, but chemicals are available.

**Heterotrophic Nutrition:**

Heterotrophic nutrition is a mode of nutrition in which organisms obtain their energy and nutrients by consuming other organisms or organic matter produced by other organisms.

1. **Herbivores:** Herbivores are heterotrophs that feed mainly on plants. They obtain their energy and nutrients by consuming plant material. Examples include cows, rabbits, and deer.

2. **Carnivores:** Carnivores are heterotrophs that primarily feed on other animals. They obtain their energy and nutrients by consuming the flesh of other animals. Examples include lions, tigers, and wolves.

3. **Omnivores:** Omnivores are heterotrophs that consume both plants and animals. They have the ability to obtain energy and nutrients from a wide range of food sources. Examples include humans, bears, and pigs.

4. **Detritivores and Decomposers:** Detritivores and decomposers are heterotrophs that obtain their energy and nutrients by feeding on dead organic matter or decaying organisms. Detritivores, such as earthworms, feed on dead plant and animal material, while decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi, break down organic matter into simpler compounds.

In summary, heterotrophs rely on other organisms or organic matter for their energy and nutrient requirements, while autotrophs can produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Heterotrophic nutrition is a mode of nutrition in which organisms depends on ready made food.