Primary Consumer
A primary consumer is an organism that feeds on producers (plants) in an ecosystem. These organisms are also known as herbivores, as they primarily consume plant material as their source of energy and nutrients.
Characteristics of Primary Consumers:
- Feed on plants and plant products
- Form the second trophic level in a food chain or food web
- Are prey for secondary consumers
- Examples include rabbits, deer, grasshoppers, and caterpillars
Role in the Ecosystem:
Primary consumers play a crucial role in the transfer of energy and nutrients within an ecosystem. They serve as the link between producers and higher-level consumers, such as carnivores and omnivores. By consuming plant material, they help regulate plant populations and contribute to nutrient cycling.
Study Questions:
- What is the primary source of food for primary consumers?
- Where do primary consumers typically fall in the trophic levels of a food chain?
- Give an example of a primary consumer in a terrestrial ecosystem and an aquatic ecosystem.
- Explain the role of primary consumers in maintaining ecosystem balance.
Key Terms:
Primary Consumer, Herbivore, Trophic Level, Food Chain, Food Web, Energy Transfer, Nutrient Cycling
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Activity LessonWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
Concepts of Life Science (SC1, SC2, SC3)
The student demonstrates an understanding that all organisms are linked to each other and their physical environments through the transfer and transformation of matter and energy by identifying examples of living and non-living things and the relationship between them (e.g., living things need water, herbivores need plants).
The student demonstrates an understanding that all organisms are linked to each other and their physical environments through the transfer and transformation of matter and energy by identifying a simple food chain of familiar plans and animals, diagramming how energy flows through it, and describing the effects of removing one link.
Concepts of Life Science: A student should understand and be able to apply the concepts, models, theories, facts, evidence, systems, and processes of life science. A student who meets the content standard should:
Develop an understanding that all organisms are linked to each other and their physical environments through the transfer and transformation of matter and energy.