What do we call organisms that are unable to synthesize glucose and must consume other organisms or organic matter?

Organisms that are unable to synthesize glucose in their own cells are classified as consumers. This term is used to describe those that rely on other organisms or organic matter for their energy needs, rather than producing their own food through processes such as photosynthesis like producers do. Consumers encompass various types of organisms, including herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores, all of which must obtain energy by consuming other living or once-living entities.

Producers, for instance, are the organisms that can manufacture glucose, typically through photosynthesis, and serve as the foundation of food chains by providing energy to consumers. Decomposers break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem, while herbivores are more specifically consumers that eat plant material. The broader category of consumers more accurately represents the entire group that includes any animal or organism that must obtain food rather than create it.