Which organism is a primary consumer?

The correct answer refers to an organism that primarily consumes producers, which are plants and other photosynthetic organisms. A primary consumer is typically herbivorous, meaning it feeds on plants.

Corn, which is a plant, plays the role of a producer in this context. It converts sunlight into energy through photosynthesis and provides energy for the organisms that consume it. The cow, as a primary consumer, feeds on corn and other plants to obtain energy. This makes it a quintessential example of a primary consumer, as it directly relies on producers for sustenance.

In contrast, the mushroom is a decomposer that feeds on dead organic matter, while the lion is a carnivorous predator that preys on primary consumers, positioning it higher in the food chain as a secondary or tertiary consumer. This reinforces the understanding that primary consumers are essential in connecting the plant producers to higher levels of the food web.