Heterotroph: An organism that is unable to synthesize organic compounds (and thus its energy) from the environment and therefore fulfils its energy requirements by feeding on other organisms or organic matter. Compare autotroph.

 

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Heterotroph: An organism that is unable to synthesize organic compounds (and thus its energy) from the environment and therefore fulfils its energy requirements by feeding on other organisms or organic m . . . View Full Definition

Heterotrophic: Refers to organisms, such as animals, that depend on preformed organic molecules from the environment (or another organism) as a source of nutrients/energy.

Heterotrophic Algae: Algae that take up organic molecules as a primary source of nutrition

Heterotrophs: Organisms that obtain their nutrition by breaking down organic molecules in foods; include animals and fungi.

Secondary Consumer: A heterotrophic, carnivorous organism that feeds on a primary consumer. Herring feeding on zooplankton are an example of a secondary consumer. See also food chain, heterotroph, primary consumer.

Primary Consumer: A heterotrophic, herbivorous organism that feeds directly on a primary producer. Urchins are a primary consumer as they feed on kelp. See also heterotroph, food chain; compare secondary consumer.

Mixoplankton: Planktonic organisms that can be classified at several trophic levels. For example, some ciliates can be photosynthetic but also can ingest other plankton and are heterotrophic.

Herbivores: Term pertaining to a heterotroph, usually an animal, that eats plants or algae. Herbivores function in food chains and food webs as primary consumers.

Carnivores: Term applied to a heterotroph, usually an animal, that eats other animals. Carnivores function as secondary, tertiary, or top consumers in food chains and food webs.

Neurotoxin: Chemical that paralyzes nerves. Neurotoxins are produced by a variety of organisms, most notably some of the heterotrophic dinoflagellates.