Heterotroph

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-013152",
  "term": "Heterotroph",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "An organism that obtains its necessary chemical energy and carbon for growth by consuming organic matter from other life forms. Unlike autotrophs, which synthesize their own food from inorganic sources like carbon dioxide, heterotrophs must ingest or absorb complex organic compounds. This category includes all animals, fungi, and most bacteria and protists.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2009, 81, 829. 'Glossary of terms used in ecotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2009)' on page 896 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-08-07-09)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/heterotroph/"
}