| Aspect | Autotrophs | Heterotrophs |
| Definition | · Organisms that can produce their own food (e.g., glucose) from inorganic substances. | · Organisms that cannot produce their own food and rely on external sources for their energy needs. |
| Primary energy source | · Sunlight (photosynthesis) · Chemosynthesis | · Obtain energy by consuming organic compounds produced by autotrophs or other heterotrophs. |
| Carbon source | · Utilize carbon dioxide (CO2) as a carbon source during photosynthesis. | · Acquire organic carbon by consuming other organisms or their byproducts. |
| Examples | · Plants · algae · Some bacteria · Some photosynthetic protists | · Animals · Fungi · Bacteria |
| Role in ecosystem | · Forms the base of food chains and supporting ecosystems. | · Consumers, as they depend on the organic matter produced by autotrophs for their energy and nutrients. |
Comparison between Autotrophs and Heterotrophs
Let me share with you a comparison between Autotrophs and Heterotrophs.