Phototropic bacteria are microorganisms that are capable of using light as a source of energy for growth and metabolism. These bacteria have unique mechanisms that allow them to convert light into chemical energy, making them an important contributor to earth's ecosystem. Synonyms for phototropic bacteria include photosynthetic bacteria, which is a group of bacteria that are capable of performing photosynthesis, using light energy to create organic compounds. Another synonym is light-loving bacteria, which refer to bacteria that have a preference for conditions with higher light intensity. Lastly, another synonym is heliobacteria, which is a specific group of phototrophic bacteria that utilize a unique type of photosynthesis, using a reaction center protein called P840.