photovory

Photovory is a hypothetical feeding strategy where an organism derives energy directly from light, similar to photosynthesis but potentially through entirely different biological mechanisms. While photosynthesis is the established process by which plants and some microorganisms convert light energy into chemical energy, photovory suggests a more direct assimilation of light photons for metabolic needs, rather than the intermediate chemical storage characteristic of photosynthesis.

The concept of photovory is speculative and currently lacks definitive biological examples. It is often discussed in theoretical contexts, particularly when considering the potential for life in environments with limited chemical energy sources but abundant light, such as certain exoplanets or deep subterranean ecosystems illuminated by bioluminescence. If photovory were to exist, it would imply novel biological pathways and pigments capable of capturing and utilizing light energy for cellular processes without the complex biochemical reactions of photosynthesis. Researchers exploring astrobiology and the limits of life sometimes consider photovory as a possible adaptation for extraterrestrial organisms.