What organisms are called autotrophic? What groups are autotrophic organisms divided into?

Autotrophs (the first link in the food chain) are organisms, through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, capable of creating organic substances themselves, processing inorganic substances, extracting them from soil, water and air. Example: green plants and some bacteria. Carbon dioxide becomes the source of carbon.

Heterotrophs use ready-made substances (organic) to create their own. Example: disease-causing bacteria.

Autotrophs are divided into two groups:

1. Chemotrophs. Energy is obtained from chemical reactions (iron, sulfur, nitrifying bacteria).

2. Phototrophs. Receive energy from the sun’s rays (light).