Which of the following organisms can function as both primary and secondary consumers in an ecosystem?

• A. Omnivores
• B. Producers
• C. Herbivores
• D. Decomposers

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the roles of organisms in an ecosystem. Primary consumers are organisms that feed directly on producers (plants or algae), while secondary consumers feed on primary consumers. Some organisms can fulfill both roles depending on their diet.
2. Step 2: Define the term 'omnivores.' Omnivores are organisms that consume both plant material (producers) and animal material (primary consumers). This dual feeding behavior allows them to act as both primary and secondary consumers.
3. Step 3: Examine the other options provided: Producers are autotrophs that create their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, and they do not consume other organisms. Herbivores are strictly primary consumers, feeding only on producers. Decomposers break down dead organic matter and recycle nutrients, but they do not function as primary or secondary consumers.
4. Step 4: Compare the characteristics of omnivores with the requirements of functioning as both primary and secondary consumers. Omnivores meet these criteria because their diet includes both producers and primary consumers.
5. Step 5: Conclude that omnivores are the correct answer, as they are the only organisms in the list capable of functioning as both primary and secondary consumers in an ecosystem.