An organism that consumes other organisms is called a heterotroph. Heterotrophs are unable to produce their own food and rely on consuming other organisms to obtain the energy and nutrients they need to survive. This group includes animals, fungi, and some bacteria.
There are different types of heterotrophs based on their feeding habits:
- Herbivores: These organisms feed primarily on plants.
- Carnivores: These organisms feed primarily on other animals.
- Omnivores: These organisms consume both plants and animals.
- Detritivores: These organisms feed on dead organic material, such as decaying plants and animals.
- Parasites: These organisms live on or in a host organism and derive their nutrients at the host’s expense.
Heterotrophs play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to recycle nutrients and energy through the food chain.