Autotrophs that perform photosynthesis, like plants, are called what?

• A. Heterotrophs
• B. Consumers
• C. Producers
• D. Decomposers

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is how energy and matter move in ecosystems and who can make their own food. Autotrophs that use light to convert energy into chemical energy and synthesize organic matter are called producers. They form the base of the food web by creating the organic molecules that nourish themselves and other organisms; plants, algae, and many bacteria are classic examples.

Heterotrophs, on the other hand, rely on already-made organic molecules for energy, so they’re consumers. Decomposers break down dead material and recycle nutrients, rather than producing new organic matter. Because photosynthetic autotrophs like plants create new organic matter from inorganic inputs using light energy, they fit the label producers, making that choice the best fit.