Organotroph

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Organotrophs are organisms that obtain hydrogen or electrons from organic substrates. This term is used in microbiology to classify and describe organisms based on how they obtain electrons for their respiration processes. Some organotrophs are also heterotrophs, but not all heterotrophs are organotrophs.

Classification[edit | edit source]

Organotrophs can be either autotrophs or heterotrophs. Autotrophs generate their own organic matter through the process of photosynthesis. Heterotrophs, on the other hand, consume organic materials to obtain their nutrients.

Metabolism[edit | edit source]

Organotrophs are known for their ability to use a variety of organic compounds as electron donors. These include sugars, fats, and proteins. The process of breaking down these compounds to extract electrons is known as metabolism.

Examples[edit | edit source]

Examples of organotrophs include animals, fungi, and many bacteria. These organisms rely on organic compounds for their energy needs.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Organotroph Resources
Wikipedia
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD