Which of the following best describes the nutritional modes found in Archaea?

• A. Archaea are neither autotrophs nor heterotrophs.
• B. All Archaea are strictly heterotrophs.
• C. Archaea can be both autotrophs and heterotrophs, depending on the species.
• D. All Archaea are strictly autotrophs.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of nutritional modes: autotrophs are organisms that produce their own food using inorganic sources (like CO2), while heterotrophs obtain organic carbon by consuming other organisms or organic matter.
2. Recall that Archaea is a diverse domain of microorganisms with varied metabolic capabilities, allowing them to survive in extreme and varied environments.
3. Recognize that some Archaea species can fix carbon dioxide and produce their own organic compounds, classifying them as autotrophs.
4. Also recognize that other Archaea species rely on organic compounds from their environment, making them heterotrophs.
5. Conclude that the nutritional modes in Archaea are not exclusive; they can be both autotrophs and heterotrophs depending on the species.