Class 7 Science Notes – Complete Chapter-wise Collection

Nutrition in Animals (Class 7 Science)


1. Introduction to Nutrition in Animals
 Nutrition is the process of obtaining and
utilizing food to provide energy and essential
nutrients for growth, repair, and functioning of
the body.
 Animals, unlike plants, cannot make their own
food (they are heterotrophs). They depend on
other living organisms (plants or animals) for
food.


2. Types of Nutrition in Animals
A. Heterotrophic Nutrition
 Heterotrophic nutrition is the mode of
nutrition in which animals depend on plants or
other animals for food.
Types of Heterotrophic Nutrition:
1.Ingestion: The intake of food into the
body.
2.Digestion: The breakdown of food into
simpler forms that can be absorbed and
utilized by the body.

, 3.Absorption: The process by which
digested nutrients are absorbed into the
bloodstream.
4.Assimilation: The incorporation of
absorbed nutrients into body cells for
growth, repair, and energy.
5.Egestion: The removal of undigested food
or waste from the body.


3. Modes of Nutrition in Animals
A. Herbivores
 Herbivores are animals that eat only plants.
 They have specialized teeth and digestive
systems to break down plant material.
Real-Life Examples:
 Cow: Cows have a specialized stomach with
multiple chambers (rumen, reticulum, etc.) to
break down tough plant fibers.
 Elephants: Elephants eat large quantities of
plants, including leaves, grass, and fruits.
B. Carnivores
 Carnivores are animals that eat other
animals.
 They have sharp teeth and claws for hunting
and tearing flesh.