An autotroph is an organism that can produce its own food using light, water, carbon dioxide, or other chemicals. It is capable of producing complex organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, from simple substances such as carbon dioxide, generally using energy from light (photosynthesis) or inorganic chemical reactions (chemosynthesis)
. Autotrophs are also known as producers and are essential in the food chain, providing energy for other organisms. They do not require a living source of carbon or energy and are able to convert an abiotic source of energy into energy stored in organic compounds
