What term describes organisms that obtain carbon compounds from other organisms?

The term that describes organisms that obtain carbon compounds from other organisms is heterotrophic. Heterotrophic organisms rely on consuming other living things or organic matter to obtain their energy and nutrients, particularly carbon. This group includes animals, fungi, and many bacteria. By feeding on plants, animals, or decomposing organic material, heterotrophs play a crucial role in ecosystems, contributing to the recycling of nutrients.

In contrast, autotrophic organisms, like plants, can produce their own carbon compounds through processes such as photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Phototrophic organisms specifically utilize light energy to convert inorganic substances into organic material, while saprotrophic organisms, a subset of heterotrophs, primarily decompose dead or decaying organic matter. Understanding these classifications emphasizes the different ways organisms interact with their environment and acquire necessary nutrients.