Heterotrophic
Adjective
Referring to organisms that cannot synthesize their own food and instead obtain it from other organisms.
Human beings are heterotrophic because they rely on consuming plants and animals for nourishment.

Usage tips
Formal
heterotrophic organisms,heterotrophic nutrition,heterotrophic lifestyle
Adjective
Referring to organisms that cannot synthesize their own food and instead obtain it from other organisms.
Human beings are heterotrophic because they rely on consuming plants and animals for nourishment.

Usage tips
Formal
heterotrophic organisms,heterotrophic nutrition,heterotrophic lifestyle
Definition 1 of 1

Biological Context
Understanding that heterotrophic organisms play a crucial role in ecosystems where they rely on other organisms for food.
Many animals are heterotrophic.
Dependency
The term can describe how some systems or people depend on external sources for sustenance.
In a corporate setting, some companies are heterotrophic, relying on external resources to thrive.
Metaphorical Use
In discussions, heterotrophic can symbolize reliance on external ideas or resources.
As artists often rely on cultural influences, they can be seen as heterotrophic.
Biological Context
Understanding that heterotrophic organisms play a crucial role in ecosystems where they rely on other organisms for food.
Many animals are heterotrophic.
Dependency
The term can describe how some systems or people depend on external sources for sustenance.
In a corporate setting, some companies are heterotrophic, relying on external resources to thrive.
Metaphorical Use
In discussions, heterotrophic can symbolize reliance on external ideas or resources.
As artists often rely on cultural influences, they can be seen as heterotrophic.
Biological Context
Understanding that heterotrophic organisms play a crucial role in ecosystems where they rely on other organisms for food.
Many animals are heterotrophic.
Dependency
The term can describe how some systems or people depend on external sources for sustenance.
In a corporate setting, some companies are heterotrophic, relying on external resources to thrive.
Metaphorical Use
In discussions, heterotrophic can symbolize reliance on external ideas or resources.
As artists often rely on cultural influences, they can be seen as heterotrophic.
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