The organisms that can get energy directly from the sun are called photoautotrophs. These are organisms that can perform photosynthesis, a process where they use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create their own food (glucose) and release oxygen as a byproduct.

Here are some examples of photoautotrophs:

* Plants: The most familiar example, trees, flowers, grasses, and all the other plant life we see around us.

* Algae: These single-celled or multicellular organisms are found in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

* Cyanobacteria: These are bacteria that can perform photosynthesis, often found in water bodies and even in soil.

Key takeaway: Photoautotrophs are the foundation of most ecosystems, as they convert sunlight into usable energy for other organisms.