Difference Between Autotrophic and Heterotrophic Nutrition

Autotrophic and Heterotrophic Nutrition:

The following are the points of difference between Autotrophic and Heterotrophic Nutrition-

Autotrophic NutritionHeterotrophic Nutrition
It is the mode of nutrition in all green plants, some bacteria and some protozoan animals (such as Euglena).It is the mode of nutrition in non-green plants and animals.
This mode of nutrition is achieved by the process of photosynthesis.In this nutrition, organisms depend upon readymade food like carbohydrates and fats.
It requires carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) as raw materials.No such raw materials are required.
Most autotrophs possess chlorophyll.Chlorophyll is absent.
A source of energy is required. It is mostly sunlight.A separate source of energy is not required. Energy is a component of organic food obtained from outside.
It is independent and self-nourishing.It is totally dependent on autotrophic organisms for their nutrition.
Autotrophs are placed at the primary level in the food chain and act as producers of food for the biosphere.Heterotrophs are placed in the secondary or tertiary level in the food chain and act as consumers of the biosphere.
It maintains the O2-CO2 balance of nature.It has no role in O2-CO2 balance.
The food is digested inside the cell.The digestion may occur inside the body organs.
There are no processes like ingestion, digestion and egestion.There is ingestion, digestion and egestion.

Modes of Nutrition: Autotrophic & HeterotrophicHatch and Slack Cycle (C4 Pathway)
Plant NutritionPlasmolysis and Deplasmolysis
Uptake of Mineral Nutrients in PlantsDifference Between C3 Plants And C4 Plants
PhotorespirationBody Fluids and Circulation

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