Question

Name and describe the attributes of the two categories into which all organisms can be divided based on how they obtain nutrition.

Short answer

Organisms can be categorized into autotrophs and heterotrophs based on how they obtain nutrition. Autotrophs make their own food using light or chemical energy, an example is green plants. Heterotrophs gain their nutrition from other organisms, an example is humans.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Autotrophs

Autotrophs are organisms that can synthesize their own food from inorganic substances using light or chemical energy. They are also known as producers. The process by which they make their food is called photosynthesis. Green plants, algae, and some bacteria are examples of autotrophs.

Describe Attributes of Autotrophs

Autotrophs possess chlorophyll which facilitate the process of photosynthesis. They use energy from the sun, water, and carbon dioxide to produce glucose for their nutrition. Autotrophs are typically green due to the presence of chlorophyll in their cells.

Identify Heterotrophs

Heterotrophs are organisms that obtain their food from other organisms, either plants or animals, since they cannot synthesize their own food. They are also known as consumers. Humans, lions, and eagles are examples of heterotrophs.

Describe Attributes of Heterotrophs

Heterotrophs depend heavily on other organisms for their food. They obtain nutrients by consuming other living things. This means they rely on the food produced by autotrophs, or other heterotrophs. Some heterotrophs are herbivores (consume plants), carnivores (consume animals), omnivores (consume both plants and animals), or decomposers (breakdown dead or decaying organisms).