What term describes the accumulation of carbon compounds in biomass by heterotrophs?

The accumulation of carbon compounds in biomass by heterotrophs is referred to as secondary production. This process occurs when heterotrophic organisms, such as animals and fungi, consume organic matter (e.g., plants or other organisms) and convert the carbon contained in that organic matter into new biomass through metabolic processes.

In simpler terms, secondary production encompasses the energy and matter transferred to higher trophic levels after it has passed through the primary producers (like plants), which are responsible for primary production. Heterotrophs utilize the organic materials created by primary producers, assimilating the carbon and building their own tissues. This concept highlights the flow of energy through the food chain, from producers to consumers, emphasizing the importance of heterotrophs in ecosystems.