What term describes organisms capable of making their own food?

The term that describes organisms capable of making their own food is autotrophic. Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own organic compounds from inorganic sources through processes such as photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. For instance, plants are a common example of autotrophic organisms; they utilize sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, essentially creating their own food and serving as a foundational component of the ecosystem.

In contrast, heterotrophic organisms rely on consuming other organisms or organic compounds for their nourishment, meaning they cannot synthesize their own food. Parasitic organisms are a subset of heterotrophs that depend on a host for nutrients, often harming the host in the process. Decomposers, including certain fungi and bacteria, break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem but also relying on organic sources for their energy needs. This highlights the distinct characteristics of autotrophs, making the term correctly applicable to organisms that synthesize their own food.