In a food web, which of the following organisms is typically considered a tertiary consumer?

• A. Grasshopper
• B. Deer
• C. Rabbit
• D. Hawk

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a food web: A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem, showing how different organisms are related through feeding relationships.
2. Identify the trophic levels: In a food web, organisms are categorized into different trophic levels based on their feeding position. The primary producers (like plants) are at the base, followed by primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores that eat herbivores), and tertiary consumers (carnivores that eat other carnivores).
3. Analyze the given organisms: Grasshoppers, deer, and rabbits are typically herbivores, meaning they are primary consumers because they feed on plants.
4. Consider the role of a hawk: Hawks are birds of prey that often feed on other animals, including secondary consumers. This places them at the tertiary consumer level in a food web.
5. Conclude the analysis: Based on the trophic levels and the feeding habits of the organisms, the hawk is typically considered a tertiary consumer in a food web.