Pertaining to organisms that are consumers and dependent on other organisms for their source of energy (food).
A plant that obtains starch from sources other than photosynthesis.
Organisms that must obtain some or all of their food from external sources. In general, applied to animals and non-photosynthetic plants, heterotroph.
Describing organisms (known as heterotrophs) that use complex organic compounds to synthesize their own organic materials. Most are chemoheterotrophic, i.e. they use the organic compounds as an energy source. This group includes the majority of bacteria and all animals and fungi.
In the realm of sustenance acquisition, the use of organic substances, which have been shaped by living organisms, as a source of sustenance is a common practice. Such organic materials are commonly employed as a means of nutrient procurement for various life forms.