The four main types of biological macromolecules are carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Carbohydrates serve as energy sources and structural components, while proteins perform a myriad of functions, including catalyzing biochemical reactions as enzymes. Lipids are crucial for membrane structure and energy storage, and nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA carry genetic information essential for inheritance and protein synthesis. Each type plays a distinct yet interconnected role in the biology of living organisms.