Which organisms primarily serve as primary consumers in most ecosystems?

Primary consumers are organisms that primarily consume producers, which are typically plants or photosynthetic organisms. Herbivores, which are the animals that eat plants, fulfill this role by directly feeding on producers to obtain their energy. This creates a fundamental link in the food chain, where energy is transferred from producers to primary consumers.

In most ecosystems, herbivores such as rabbits, deer, and many insect species play critical roles in regulating plant populations and facilitating energy flow. They not only serve as food sources for higher-level consumers but also contribute to nutrient cycling through their feeding habits and waste production. Understanding their role as primary consumers is essential for grasping ecological dynamics and energy transfer within different ecosystems.