Meaning of the word heterotrophic in English

What does heterotrophic mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

heterotrophic

US /ˌhet̬.ɚ.əˈtroʊ.fɪk/
UK /ˌhet.ər.əˈtrəʊ.fɪk/

Adjective

(of an organism) deriving its nutritional requirements from complex organic substances

Example:
Humans are heterotrophic organisms, meaning we must consume food for energy.
Fungi are heterotrophic and obtain nutrients by absorbing dissolved organic molecules.
Related Word: