Final Answer:
Fungi are heterotrophs that obtain nutrients through external digestion, secreting enzymes to break down organic matter, and absorbing the resulting nutrients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fungi are heterotrophs, meaning they cannot produce their own food through photosynthesis like autotrophs. Instead, they acquire nutrients by external digestion. Fungi release enzymes into their surroundings, breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler forms. Subsequently, they absorb these nutrients, such as sugars and amino acids, directly through their cell walls. This process allows fungi to thrive on a variety of organic substrates, including decaying matter and living organisms in mutualistic relationships.
In summary, fungi are heterotrophs that employ external digestion and nutrient absorption to meet their metabolic needs.