The term for a living organism that produces its food through photosynthesis is "autotroph." Autotrophs, including plants, algae, and some bacteria, convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. This process occurs in chloroplasts, where chlorophyll captures sunlight. Autotrophs form the foundation of the food chain, as they provide energy and organic matter for heterotrophs, organisms that cannot produce their own food and rely on consuming other living things. This symbiotic relationship is critical for maintaining ecosystems.