Which term describes an animal that gets energy by eating plants?

Which term describes an animal that gets energy by eating plants?

• A. Herbivore
• B. Carnivore
• C. Producer
• D. Decomposer

Answer: (A)

In ecosystems, energy moves from producers to consumers. An animal that gets energy by eating plants is called an herbivore. Plants are producers because they photosynthesize to make food. When animals eat plants, they become primary consumers and pass energy along to higher trophic levels. Carnivores eat other animals, not plants. Decomposers break down dead material rather than feeding on living plants for energy. So herbivore is the best term for an animal that gets energy by eating plants.

In ecosystems, energy moves from producers to consumers. An animal that gets energy by eating plants is called an herbivore. Plants are producers because they photosynthesize to make food. When animals eat plants, they become primary consumers and pass energy along to higher trophic levels. Carnivores eat other animals, not plants. Decomposers break down dead material rather than feeding on living plants for energy. So herbivore is the best term for an animal that gets energy by eating plants.