Heterotrophs obtain food by consuming other organisms or organic matter. Unlike autotrophs, which create their own food through processes like photosynthesis, heterotrophs rely on the energy stored in the organic compounds of plants, animals, and decomposed matter.
There are different types of heterotrophs, including herbivores, carnivores, omnivores, and decomposers. Herbivores eat plants, while carnivores consume other animals. Omnivores have a more varied diet, eating both plants and animals. Decomposers, on the other hand, break down dead organic material, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
To summarize, heterotrophs get their food by feeding on others, whether it’s plants, animals, or decaying matter, allowing them to gain the energy and nutrients they need to survive.