What is the difference between autotrophs and heterotrophs?

Autotrophs create their own food through a process known as carbon fixation. It is the process of obtaining carbon directly from carbon dioxide (inorganic carbon) by assimilating it into organic compounds. It is then used in organic cells of various autotrophic organisms.

Heterotrophic creatures derive their food from organic sources present in their environment. They cannot convert inorganic carbon to organic carbon. This means that they need to eat or absorb materials that contain organic compounds, such as plants and animals.