What best describes heterotrophs in marine ecosystems?

Heterotrophs in marine ecosystems are best described as organisms that consume other organisms. These organisms cannot produce their own food through processes like photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, which are the defining characteristics of autotrophs. Instead, heterotrophs rely on consuming organic matter, which can come from plants, other animals, or decomposed organic material.

In marine environments, heterotrophs play a crucial role in the food web. They can be primary consumers, such as zooplankton that feed on phytoplankton, or higher-level consumers like fish, sharks, and marine mammals that prey upon other animals. This consumer-based energy transfer is essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting various trophic levels in the ocean.

Understanding the role of heterotrophs also highlights their importance in nutrient cycling within marine ecosystems, as they help break down organic material and release nutrients back into the environment, making them available for autotrophs and thus sustaining life in marine habitats.