How Does Photosynthesis Benefit Heterotrophs?
Autotrophs and Primary Production Autotrophs make their own food, most through photosynthesis. Photosynthesis uses the energy of the sun to make sugars from carbon dioxide and water. This process sustains plants and some other organisms, such as algae and phytoplankton. Photosynthetic organisms are known as the “primary producers” of the food chain. They are the foundation on which all other organisms depend. In general, the food chain moves from plants and other autotrophs to herbivores, and then to omnivores and carnivores, which eat the herbivores. Heterotrophs and Photosynthesis In contrast to autotrophs, heterotrophs survive through respiration, using oxygen and an energy source (carbohydrates, fats or protein) to produce ATP, which powers cells. They depend on other organisms for food and oxygen. Photosynthesis benefits heterotrophs in several different ways. First, photosynthesis consumes carbon dioxide (a waste product of respiration) and produces oxygen (necessary for respirat
