Autotrophs vs Heterotrophs

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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