Define heterotrophic nutrition.

Heterotrophic nutrition is the mode of nutrition in which organisms cannot prepare their own food and depend on other organisms for their nutritional requirements.

These organisms obtain ready-made organic food by consuming plants, animals, or both. The consumed food is then digested and utilized to provide energy, growth, and maintenance of the body.

Examples of heterotrophic organisms include humans, animals, fungi, and many bacteria. This type of nutrition is essential for organisms that lack the ability to perform photosynthesis.

Heterotrophic nutrition ensures the transfer of energy across different levels of the food chain.