Nutrition and Energy Spring 2018
Ecology Ecology – study of the interactions among organisms and between organisms and their environment. Ecologists study the flow of energy through communities to discover nutritional relationships between organisms. SUNLIGHT is the main energy source for life on Earth
Ecology Autotrophs – organisms that use sunlight or energy stored in chemical compounds to make food because they make their own food – called producers.
Types of Autotrophs Photosynthesis Chemosynthesis Process used by autotrophs to make food energy from the sun. Examples: Plants Algae Cyanobacteria Autotrophs that capture chemical energy since they live in places without sunlight. Bacteria found in volcanic vents, hot springs, tidal marshes
Decomposers Break down organic matter Examples: Bacteria Fungi
Heterotrophs Organisms that rely on other organisms for their energy and food supply. They are also called consumers.
Types of Heterotrophs Heterotroph Description Examples Heterotroph Herbivore Description Eats only plants Examples Cows Caterpillars Deer Heterotroph Carnivore Description Eats only animals Examples Snakes Owls Sharks
Types of Herbivores Heterotroph Description Examples Heterotroph Omnivore Description Eats both plants and animals Examples Humans Bears Crows Heterotroph Detritivore Description Eats plants and animal remains Examples Worms Crabs Mites