What term is used to describe organisms that can produce their own food?

The term "autotrophs" refers to organisms that can produce their own food through processes such as photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. This ability allows them to convert inorganic materials into organic compounds, essentially making them self-sustaining in terms of energy. For example, plants are classic examples of autotrophs, as they utilize sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to create glucose and oxygen.

In contrast, heterotrophs rely on other organisms for their energy and nutrients. They cannot create their own food and instead consume plants or other animals. Scavengers are a specific type of heterotroph that feeds on dead or decaying organisms, while decomposers break down organic material, returning nutrients to the ecosystem but also do not produce their own food. Thus, the unique ability of autotrophs to synthesize food is crucial for the energy flow in ecosystems, making the term the correct one for describing these self-sustaining organisms.