Autotrophs vs Heterotrophs
Lesson Progress
0% Complete
Autotrophs can produce their own organic compounds from inorganic compounds surrounding them whereas heterotrophs must consume other organisms for organic substances for energy.
| Autotroph | Heterotroph |
| Can produce its own food using photosynthesis; producer. | Cannot make its own food, therefore derives its food from other sources; consumer. |
Nutrient and Gas Requirements
| Nutrient/Gas Requirement | Autotroph | Heterotroph |
|---|---|---|
| Oxygen gas | Diffuses into plant across the cell surface | Diffuses through the respiratory surface |
| Carbon dioxide gas | Diffuses into the plant | Not required |
| Water | Diffuses into the root | Ingested into the digestive system |
| Glucose | Produced by photosynthesis | Ingested into the digestive system as either simple or complex carbohydrates, and absorbed into the bloodstream |
| Lipids/proteins | Produced by the plant from glucose and mineral ions | Ingested into the digestive system and absorbed into the bloodstream as amino acids, fatty acids or glycerol |
| Mineral ions | Move into the plant through the roots by diffusion and active transport | Ingested into the digestive system and absorbed into the bloodstream |