Autotrophs: Definition and Explanation

Autotrophs are organisms that can synthesis their own food using inorganic substances and energy from the sun or other sources. Green plants are autotrophs because they use photosynthesis to create their own food.

Photosynthesis: Definition and Explanation

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants create their own food using energy from the sun. The process involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy stored in the form of glucose. During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide and water are combined to form glucose and oxygen gas. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of green plants.

Heterotrophs: Definition and Explanation

Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot synthesis their own food and must obtain their nutrients from other sources. Animals and fungi are examples of heterotrophs. They consume other organisms or organic matter to obtain the nutrients they need to survive.

Parasites: Definition and Explanation

Parasites are organisms that live on or inside other organisms, called hosts, and obtain their nutrients from the host. Parasites can harm the host and cause disease or even death. Examples of parasites include tapeworms, lice, and malaria.

Symbiotic: Definition and Explanation

Symbiotic relationships occur when two or more organisms live together in a mutually beneficial relationship. For example, some plants and fungi have a symbiotic relationship in which the plant provides the fungus with food and the fungus helps the plant absorb nutrients from the soil.

Conclusion

Green plants are called autotrophs because they can synthesis their own food using energy from the sun. This is accomplished through the process of photosynthesis. In contrast, heterotrophs must obtain their nutrients from other sources, and parasites obtain their nutrients from a host. Symbiotic relationships occur when two or more organisms live together in a mutually beneficial relationship.