Heterotrophic microorganisms

heterotrophic microorganisms : Bacteria and other microorganisms that use organic matter synthesized by other organisms for energy and growth.

Fungi: Aerobic, multicellular, nonphotosynthetic, heterotrophic microorganisms. The fungi include mushrooms, yeast, molds, and smuts. Most fungi are saprophytes, obtaining their nourishment from dead organic matter.

carbonaceous oxidation A biochemical process by which heterotrophic microorganisms derive energy from organic wastes, rendering more stable organics and inorganics as end-products and producing carbon dioxide and water. See biodegradable.

See also: Gas, Structure, Discharge, Oxygen, Treatment