Definition

Describing organisms that can synthesize all the compounds they need for growth from basic nutrients, similar to their natural form.

Example

The prototrophic strain of bacteria can thrive in minimal media without additional nutrients.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new bacteria we studied in class?

Yeah, the ones that are prototrophic and can thrive without extra nutrients.

Exactly! It's fascinating how they can survive like that.

It really is! I love learning about their metabolic capabilities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prototrophic → It is formed from "proto-" (from Greek "protos", meaning first) and "trophic" (from Greek "trophikos", meaning relating to nourishment or feeding). The word describes organisms that can synthesize their own food from inorganic substances, thus being the 'first' in terms of nutritional independence.

Memory Tip

Think of 'first' ('proto-') in terms of how these organisms can 'nourish' themselves ('trophic') without relying on others.

Visually Confused Words