In the intricate tapestry of life on our

planet, the study of nutrition in

animals reveals a captivating journey
of survival, adaptation, and the
relentless pursuit of sustenance.

Nutrition
PROJECT

2023
Presented by:
Elizabeth, Ooreife, David, Jubilee,Damilola, Samuel
The vast majority of animals occupy a unique ecological niche as
heterotrophs, a classification that underscores their profound
interdependence with the plant kingdom. These captivating organisms,
inhabiting ecosystems across the globe, have evolved in such a way that
they cannot synthesize their sustenance, instead relying either directly or
indirectly on photosynthetic autotrophs, primarily plants, to procure the
vital nourishment essential for their survival and growth. The intricate
dynamics of this heterotrophic existence not only reveal the awe-inspiring
complexity of nature but also shed light on the profound
interconnectedness that defines the delicate balance of life on our planet.
This profound reliance on external sources of nutrition underscores the
intricate relationships and ingenious adaptations that have evolved over
eons, shaping the captivating world of heterotrophic organisms.

Within the intricate web of life that blankets our planet, animals occupy a
unique niche as heterotrophic organisms, meaning that they
fundamentally lack the intrinsic ability to synthesize their own
sustenance. Unlike autotrophic organisms, which harness the power of
photosynthesis to produce their nutritional requirements, animals find
themselves intricately interconnected with the broader biosphere, and
their sustenance depends, either directly or indirectly, on the botanical
bounty that plants offer. This interdependence, where animals invariably
rely on the organic matter produced by the autotrophic members of our
ecosystems, serves as a foundational concept in the realm of biology. It
highlights not only the remarkable diversity of animal life but also
underscores the multifaceted intricacies of nature's intricate tapestry,
where every organism's survival is inextricably linked to their capacity to
access, capture, and consume the nourishment provided by the green
kingdom. In this delicate dance of interrelationship and coexistence, we
unearth the awe-inspiring world of heterotrophic nutrition, where the
ever-turning cycle of life on Earth continues to unravel its mesmerizing
complexity. Based on their food types, below are the divisions of animals :
 Herbivores: Herbivores are
animals that primarily feed on
plant material, such as leaves,
stems, fruits and grasses. They
have specialized adaptations for
processing plant material,
including flat teeth for grinding
and long digestive systems for
breaking down cellulose. Examples of herbivores include cows,
horses, rabbits, panda bears and deers.

Carnivores: Carnivores are animals that primarily eat other

animals. They have sharp teeth and
powerful jaws for hunting, killing
and consuming meat. Examples of
carnivores include lions, wolves,
hawks and sharks.
Omnivores: Omnivores are
animals that consume both plant and
animals. They have a more varied diet
and often exhibit various adaptations.
Humans are a classic example on
omnivores, as we eat a combination of
fruits vegetables and animal products.
Bears and racoons are also examples.
Scavengers: Scavengers are animals that
primarily feed on dead animals or carrion.
They play a critical role in the ecosystem
by helping to recycle nutrients from
decaying organisms. Examples of
scavengers include vultures, hyenas, and
certain species of beetles.
Detritivores: Detritivores are organisms that feed on decaying
organic matter, such as fallen leaves, dead plants, and organic
debris. They help break down organic material into simpler
substances and release nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Earthworms and some types of insects are detritivores..

Insectivores: Insectivores are animals that specialise in feeding on

insects. They have adaptations like sharp beaks, claws, or
specialized mouthparts for capturing and consuming insects.
Examples of insectivores include anteaters, bats, and certain bird
species.

Piscivores: Piscivores are animals that primarily eat fish. They often
have specialized adaptations, such as sharp teeth and streamlined
bodies, for capturing and consuming aquatic prey. Examples of
piscivores include penguins, otters, and herons.

Frugivores: Frugivores are animals that primarily feed on fruits.

They have adaptations like sharp teeth or beaks for tearing into fruit
and extracting seeds. Birds like toucans and certain primates, such
as howler monkeys, are frugivores.
Nectarivores: Nectarivores are animals that primarily consume nectar
from flowers. They have long, specialized mouthparts, like the
proboscis of butterflies and hummingbirds, to access the sugary
liquid within flowers

Granivores: Granivores are animals that primarily eat seeds. They

often have strong beaks or jaws for cracking open seeds and
extracting the nutritious contents. Examples of granivores include
sparrows, finches, and squirrels.