What are Autotrophs?
Definition of Autotrophs: Autotrophs are organisms capable of producing their own food using energy from sunlight or inorganic compounds.
Autotrophs are primary producers in ecosystems and form the base of food chains by converting light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Plants, algae, and some bacteria are examples of autotrophs. They use photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen in the presence of sunlight. Chemosynthetic autotrophs, found in extreme environments like deep-sea vents, use chemical energy to produce organic compounds from inorganic substances. Autotrophs play an important role in sustaining life by providing energy and nutrients for heterotrophs, which cannot produce their food.
Also Read: Food Chains and Food Webs
Autotroph
Autotrophs are organisms capable of synthesizing organic molecules from inorganic sources like carbon dioxide and water through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. They form the foundation of most ecosystems by converting energy from sunlight or chemical compounds into usable energy for themselves and other organisms. Autotrophs examples include plants, algae, and certain bacteria.
Autotrophs play a vital role in the carbon cycle, producing oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis and serving as primary producers in food chains. In this article, we will study autotrophs, their types, examples and functions in the ecosystem.
Table of Content
- What are Autotrophs?
- Types of Autotrophs
- Photoautotrophs
- Chemoautotrophs
- Characteristics of Autotrophs
- Examples of Autotrophs
- Differences Between Autotrophs and Heterotrophs
- Functions of Autotrophs
- Conclusion – Autotrophs
- FAQs on Autotrophs
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