The Euglena is unique in that it is both heterotrophic (must consume food) and autotrophic (can make its own food). Chloroplasts within the euglena trap sunlight that is used for photosynthesis and can be seen as several rod-like structures throughout the cell.

Why euglena is called heterotrophic?

Euglena can also gain nutrients by absorbing them across their cell membrane, hence they become heterotrophic when light is not available, and they cannot photosynthesize.

How are euglena both autotrophic and heterotrophic?

Euglena: is a single-celled microscopic algae that is both heterotrophic (must consume food) and autotrophic (can make its own food). Their chloroplasts trap sunlight and use it to carry out photosynthesis. ... The eyespot helps the organism to detect light sources in order to photosynthesize.