Which of the following describes bacteria in relation to their nutritional needs?

Bacteria are classified as one-celled organisms, known as prokaryotes, and many of them cannot produce their own food through photosynthesis or other means. Instead, they require organic compounds from their environment to sustain their growth and reproduction. While some bacteria can utilize simple inorganic substances, most depend on external sources of carbon, nitrogen, and energy to survive. This reflects their diverse nutritional strategies, including heterotrophy, where they absorb organic matter from their surroundings.

Understanding the characteristics of bacteria is crucial in Integrated Pest Management, as it highlights their role in ecosystems, their potential for both beneficial and harmful interactions, and their importance in processes such as decomposition and nutrient cycling.