Autotrofisk

Autotrofisk is a term used in biology to describe organisms that can produce their own food, usually through photosynthesis. These organisms are the primary producers in most ecosystems, forming the base of the food chain. Plants, algae, and some bacteria are examples of autotrophs. They convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of organic compounds, such as glucose. This process involves using simple inorganic substances like carbon dioxide and water. Autotrophs are crucial for life on Earth as they supply the energy and organic matter that other organisms, known as heterotrophs, consume. Without autotrophs, most ecosystems would collapse due to a lack of food. The term originates from the Greek words "auto" meaning self and "trophos" meaning feeder. This self-feeding capability distinguishes them from heterotrophs, which must obtain energy by consuming other organisms.