Autotrophic (Adjective)
Meaning
Of or relating to organisms (as green plants) that can make complex organic nutritive compounds from simple inorganic sources by photosynthesis.
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- Green plants are autotrophic organisms that use sunlight to synthesize food from carbon dioxide and water.
- The ability of certain bacteria to convert nitrogen gas into a usable form makes them autotrophic.
- Phytoplankton, tiny autotrophic organisms in the ocean, form the base of the aquatic food web.
- Autotrophic algae play a crucial role in the ecosystem of coral reefs by providing a primary source of food.
- In contrast to heterotrophic organisms, autotrophic organisms like trees can produce their own nutrients through photosynthesis.