In ecological food chains, what are animals called that feed primarily on herbivores?

• A. Secondary consumers
• B. Producers
• C. Primary consumers
• D. Decomposers

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of a food chain. A food chain represents the flow of energy and nutrients through different levels of organisms in an ecosystem, starting with producers and moving through various consumer levels.
2. Step 2: Define the roles of each group in the food chain: Producers (e.g., plants) create energy through photosynthesis, Primary consumers (e.g., herbivores) feed on producers, Secondary consumers feed on primary consumers, and Decomposers break down dead organic matter.
3. Step 3: Focus on the term 'secondary consumers.' These are animals that primarily feed on herbivores (primary consumers). Examples include carnivores like wolves or omnivores like bears.
4. Step 4: Compare the other options provided: Producers create energy, Primary consumers feed on producers, and Decomposers recycle nutrients. None of these match the description of animals feeding primarily on herbivores.
5. Step 5: Conclude that animals feeding primarily on herbivores are classified as secondary consumers, based on their role in the food chain.