1. Nutrition and Energy
E.Q: What is the main energy source for almost all ecosystems on Earth?

2. Ecology
Ecology – The study of the interactions among organisms and between organisms and their environment Ecologist study the flow of energy through communities to discover nutritional relationships between organisms

3. Energy Sunlight is the main energy source for all life on earth.
Autotrophs – organisms that use sunlight or energy stored in chemicals in compounds to make food
Because they make their own food they are called Producers

4. Energy
Autotrophs
Photosynthesis: process used by autotrophs to make food energy from sun. Ex. Plants, Algae, Cyanobacteria
Chemosynthesis: autotrophs that capture chemical energy since they live in places without sunlight. Ex. Bacteria found in volcano vents, hot springs, or marshes

5. Energy
Heterotrophs – organisms that rely on other organisms for their energy and food supply
Also called Consumers
Heterotroph
Description
Examples
Herbivore
Eats only plants
Cows, caterpillars, deer
Carnivore
Eat only animals
Snakes, owls, sharks
Omnivore
Eats both plants and animals
Humans, bears, crows
Detritivore
Eat plant and animal remains
Worms, crabs, mites

6. Energy
Decomposers – break down organic matter Ex. Bacteria and fungi