Nutrient groups Flashcards
components and their functions
what is a heterotroph?
Heterotrophic species cannot synthesise energy from their environment and therefore rely on others such as plant/animal matter for nutrition
what is an autotroph?
Autotrophic species are able to synthesise ‘food’ from its surroundings using either light or chemical energy e.g photosynthesis
there are 7 nutrient groups; name them
proteins
water
lipids
fibre
carbohydrates
vitamins
minerals
what does water help with in the animal?
it compromises 50-70% of the animal’s bodyweight
it allows chemical reactions to take place
transports chemicals
aids the thermoregulatory system
removes waste
what does fibre help with in the animal?
regulates bowel function
increases bulk and water in the intestinal contents
aids removal of waste
what do carbohydrates help with in the animal?
supplying adequate energy to cells
they are broken down by the body into glucose to be absorbed by cells
They are essential for organ and system function!
what do lipids help with in the animal?
storage of energy
insulation
support and cushion organs
aid absorption of fat- soluble vitamins
what do proteins help with in the animal?
necessary for growth and maintenance of cells and tissues. Can be: enzymes, hormones, haemoglobin etc
energy source
what do vitamins help with in the animal?
promote specific chemical reactions in the body
keep the body healthy
what do minerals help with in the animal?
growth and maintenance of bones and teeth
osmoregulation
nerve transmission
muscle contraction
transport systems
