Which of the following organisms is incorrectly paired with its trophic level? a. cyanobacterium—primary producer b. grasshopper—primary consumer c. zooplankton—primary producer d. fungus—detritivore

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of each organism in an ecosystem based on the terms given: primary producer, primary consumer, and detritivore.
2. Understand that primary producers are organisms that can produce their own food through processes like photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, typically plants and some bacteria.
3. Recognize that primary consumers are organisms that eat primary producers; these are usually herbivores.
4. Note that detritivores are organisms that feed on dead organic material, aiding in decomposition.
5. Evaluate each pairing to determine if the organism's role matches the trophic level described: cyanobacteria (photosynthetic bacteria), grasshopper (herbivore), zooplankton (typically consumers or secondary producers), and fungus (decomposer).

Key Concepts

Trophic Levels

Trophic levels represent the hierarchical positions of organisms in a food chain, categorized based on their feeding relationships. Primary producers, such as plants and cyanobacteria, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. Primary consumers, like grasshoppers, feed on these producers, while secondary consumers eat primary consumers. Detritivores, such as fungi, break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Primary Producers

Primary producers are organisms that synthesize their own food from sunlight or inorganic substances, forming the base of the food web. They are crucial for energy flow in ecosystems, as they convert solar energy into chemical energy. Examples include plants, algae, and cyanobacteria, which are essential for supporting herbivores and higher trophic levels.

Detritivores

Detritivores are organisms that feed on dead organic matter, breaking it down into simpler substances. This process is vital for nutrient cycling within ecosystems, as it helps decompose waste and dead organisms, returning essential nutrients to the soil. Fungi and certain insects are common examples of detritivores, playing a key role in maintaining ecosystem health.