Heterotrophic (Adjective)
Meaning
Requiring organic compounds of carbon and nitrogen for nourishment; "most animals are heterotrophic".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- Most animals are heterotrophic, relying on consuming other organisms to obtain the necessary nutrients for survival.
- Humans are heterotrophic organisms that require a diet rich in organic compounds to sustain life.
- The heterotrophic nature of fungi allows them to obtain nutrients by decomposing organic matter or forming symbiotic relationships with other organisms.
- In contrast to autotrophic plants, heterotrophic organisms such as animals and fungi cannot produce their own food and must consume other organisms to survive.
- Many heterotrophic microorganisms play a crucial role in ecosystems by breaking down dead organic matter and recycling nutrients.