Compare and contrast autotrophs and heterotrophs

Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food from the substances available in their surroundings using light (photosynthesis) or chemical energy (chemosynthesis). Heterotrophs cannot synthesize their own food and rely on other organisms — both plants and animals — for nutrition.

autotrophs are known are known as producers because they are able to make their own food from raw materials and energy, such as plants, algae and some types of bacteria.

heterotrophs are known as consumers Because they consume producers or other consumers such as dogs, birds, fish and humans.