What type of organism makes its own food?

Autotrophs are organisms capable of producing their own food using light, water, carbon dioxide, or other chemicals. They perform processes such as photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, where they convert inorganic substances into organic compounds. For instance, plants are classic examples of autotrophs as they utilize sunlight to convert CO2 and water into glucose and oxygen through photosynthesis. This ability to synthesize their own food places autotrophs at the base of the food chain, serving as primary producers in ecosystems, which ultimately supports other organisms including consumers and decomposers.

In contrast, heterotrophs rely on consuming other organisms for energy and nutrients. Decomposers break down dead organic material, returning nutrients to the soil, while consumers include animals that rely on eating plants and other animals. Thus, the unique capability of autotrophs to generate their own sustenance sets them apart and highlights their crucial role in ecological systems.