A heterotroph is an organism that relies on external sources for its organic carbon and energy.
Unlike autotrophs, which produce their own food, heterotrophs consume other organisms or organic matter.
They include animals, fungi, and many microorganisms. Heterotrophs obtain nutrients by ingesting, absorbing, or decomposing organic substances. Their dependence on external food sources places them in various trophic levels within ecosystems.
Humans are examples of heterotrophic organisms, relying on the consumption of plants and animals to meet their nutritional needs. Heterotrophy is a common strategy in the animal kingdom and microbial world.
