heterotrophy Definition
the state of obtaining food and nutrients from organic compounds, rather than by synthesizing them from inorganic sources.
Using heterotrophy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "heterotrophy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Animals are heterotrophs because they cannot produce their own food.
Example
Fungi are heterotrophs that feed on dead organic matter.
Example
Humans are heterotrophs that obtain energy from the food they eat.
📌
Summary: heterotrophy in Brief
The term 'heterotrophy' [het-er-uh-troh-fee] refers to the state of obtaining food and nutrients from organic compounds, rather than by synthesizing them from inorganic sources. This is a characteristic of animals, fungi, and humans, who rely on external sources for sustenance.
