What does the term "autotroph" refer to?

The term "autotroph" refers to organisms that produce their own food from inorganic substances. This process typically occurs through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Autotrophs, such as plants and some bacteria, harness energy from sunlight or chemical sources to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This ability to generate their own energy is fundamental to ecosystems, as these organisms form the base of the food chain, supporting heterotrophs that depend on them for energy. Understanding this concept is crucial for grasping how nutrient cycling and energy flow operate within ecological systems.