An organism that makes its own food is known as a
The correct answer and explanation is:
An organism that makes its own food is known as an autotroph.
Autotrophs are organisms capable of producing their own organic compounds from simple inorganic substances. This process generally involves converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and other nutrients, using energy derived either from sunlight or chemical reactions. There are two main types of autotrophs: photoautotrophs and chemoautotrophs.
Photoautotrophs use sunlight as their energy source. They perform photosynthesis, a process where light energy is captured by pigments like chlorophyll to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Plants, algae, and some bacteria are examples of photoautotrophs. Photosynthesis plays a vital role in sustaining life on Earth as it forms the base of most food chains and contributes oxygen to the atmosphere.
Chemoautotrophs obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic molecules such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, or iron ions. These organisms are commonly found in environments where sunlight does not reach, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents or underground. Chemoautotrophic bacteria are important for nutrient cycling and support ecosystems independent of solar energy.
Autotrophs contrast with heterotrophs, which cannot produce their own food and must consume other organisms or organic substances for energy. The ability of autotrophs to produce food is crucial for ecosystems, as they serve as primary producers. They convert inorganic materials into forms that can be used by other living organisms, thus sustaining the flow of energy through food webs.
In summary, autotrophs are self-sustaining organisms that generate organic molecules from inorganic compounds using energy from light or chemical sources. This capability underpins life on Earth by supporting diverse ecosystems and maintaining atmospheric balance.