Which of the following is an example of a primary consumer?

A primary consumer is an organism that primarily feeds on producers, which are typically plants or other autotrophs. In ecological terms, primary consumers are often herbivores that consume plant material to obtain their energy and nutrients. Since herbivorous animals form a direct link in the food chain by feeding on plants, they play a crucial role in transferring energy from the primary producers to the higher trophic levels, such as carnivores.

In this context, herbivorous animals exemplify primary consumers because their diet consists of plant matter. This interaction is fundamental to maintaining the flow of energy within an ecosystem, illustrating the connection between different trophic levels. Understanding the role of primary consumers is essential for studying ecological dynamics, food webs, and the overall balance in ecosystems.