make their “food” through the process of photosynthesis (seeCell Functionschapter). Like
animals, mushrooms and other fungi obtain energy from other organisms. That’s why you
often see fungi growing on a fallen tree; the rotting tree is their source of energy (Figure
2.6). Although the means of getting energy might be different, all organisms need some
source of energy. And since plants harvest energy from the sun and other organisms get
their energy from plants, nearly all the energy of living things ultimately comes from the
sun.
Figure 2.6: Fungi obtain energy from breaking down dead organisms, such as this rotting
log. ( 25 )
Besides obtaining energy from the foods you eat, you also need the chemical building blocks
in food to build and maintain your body. For example, you get calcium for building bones
from eating dairy products or leafy greens. Plants obtain nutrients from the soil. Nutrients
will be discussed in the next lesson.
Lesson Summary
- All living things grow, reproduce, and maintain a stable internal environment.
- All organisms are made of cells.
- All living things need energy and resources to survive.
Review Questions
- Define the word organism.