Which of the following organisms is a primary producer?

• A. Snake
• B. Antelope
• C. Fungi
• D. Grass

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a primary producer: Primary producers are organisms that can produce their own food through processes like photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. They form the base of the food chain by converting energy from sunlight or inorganic compounds into organic compounds.
2. Identify the role of each organism listed: A snake is a consumer (carnivore), an antelope is a consumer (herbivore), fungi are decomposers, and grass is a primary producer because it uses photosynthesis to create its own food.
3. Recall the process of photosynthesis: Grass, as a plant, uses sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The chemical equation for photosynthesis is: $\mathrm{6CO}{2}_{}+\mathrm{6H}{2}_{}O\to C{6}_{}H{\mathrm{12}}_{}O{6}_{}+\mathrm{6O}{2}_{}$.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Snakes and antelopes are consumers because they rely on other organisms for food. Fungi are decomposers, breaking down organic matter. Grass is the only organism in the list that fits the definition of a primary producer.
5. Conclude that grass is the correct answer because it is capable of producing its own food through photosynthesis, making it a primary producer in the ecosystem.